I’m afraid we’ll need to terminate our contract, effective immediately.Come speak with me sometime today so we can decide whether you need to start over. I’m afraid you’ve misunderstood the assignment.Like “unfortunately,” “I’m afraid” can be used in both formal and informal situations. When used in this way “afraid” doesn’t mean “scared.” It’s more like saying “sorry.” “I’m afraid” is a common phrase used to preface or soften potentially bad news. However, issues in the lab have forced us to move your start date. You were cleared to begin the experiment in your requested timeframe.It’s true that you submitted the paperwork on time.Here’s how you can use “however” to replace “unfortunately”: In The Cambridge Dictionary “however” in this context is defined as “despite this.” It’s like saying “but” or “on the other hand.” It can replace “unfortunately” when introducing a negative aspect to a potentially positive idea. “However” can be used to fully or partially negate the statement that comes before it. I’m sad to say the state has rejected your application, as we’re still missing some paperwork.I’m sad to say we were unable to rescue your samples from the fire in the lab.Here’s what “I’m sad to say” might look like in professional emails: Like “I’m sorry to say,” it’s a good way to professionally extend your sympathies. “I’m sad to say” emphasizes your unhappiness with the situation. I’m sorry to say we still have been unable to locate your paper.I’m sorry to say the data still isn’t quite matching up.As such, most formal writing avoids “I” statements.Īlthough “I’m sorry to say” is an “I” statement, it’s still a phrase you’re likely to see in formal settings. “I’m sorry to say” is a good phrase to use when you want to express your sympathy about a situation.Ī lot of formal writing, especially in professional and academic settings, tries to be as impersonal as possible. Sadly, we must report that there has been no change to your mother’s condition.Sadly, this year’s staff retreat will need to be canceled.In neutral contexts, it has the same basic meaning as “unfortunately” without much emphasis on the sadness involved. While “sadly” is often used in emotional contexts, it can also be used in neutral contexts. “Sadly” literally describes an emotion, it isn’t exclusively used as an emotional word.Īccording to The Cambridge Dictionary, “sadly” means “in an unhappy way.” “Sadly” emphasizes the unhappiness associated with the outcome. Fraudulent transactions have regrettably increased, so there will be a slight delight in processing your claim.Regrettably, the school district has significantly reduced funding for school lunches, so we’re unable to provide a gluten-free option for your child. Here are some ways you can use “regrettably”: Unlike “unfortunately,” “regrettably” is considered to be exclusively formal language. The Cambridge Dictionary defines “regrettably” as “in a way that makes you feel sad or sorry about something.” Additionally, “regrettably” is more formal than “unfortunately,” making it more appropriate in some contexts. “Regrettably” is is a good replacement for “unfortunately” when you want to emphasize that you feel sorry about the outcome. I’ve forwarded your issue to my superiors. As it turns out, I don’t have access to the files you’re requesting.As it turns out, we can’t offer refunds on items beyond 90 days. Here’s how you can use “as it turns out” in formal contexts: “As it turns out” avoids both of these issues. Using negative language risks someone feeling more negatively about the outcome of a situation than they might otherwise.Īdditionally, “unfortunately” is making a judgment call that the unexpected outcome is also unwanted. One potential weakness with “unfortunately” is that it’s negative. The outcome isn’t necessarily good or bad, just different. “As it turns out” is a phrase you use when the outcome is different than what was expected. This can help to soften any bad news or help to avoid making any sort of judgment call on the news. The preferred option is “as it turns out.” “As it turns out” is neutral it’s neither inherently positive nor inherently negative. Here are the words and phrases we’ll be exploring in this article: There are a lot of ways to preface bad news in English. In this article, we’re going to go over some useful alternatives to “unfortunately.” What Can I Write Instead Of “Unfortunately” In Formal Emails? While there’s nothing wrong with saying “unfortunately,” it may not always be the best choice for formal emails. “Unfortunately” is a word we use to preface bad news or bad luck.
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