Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Admin
In professional communication, the word “unfortunately” can come across as negative and may not always convey the right tone. It’s often better to use alternative phrases that sound more empathetic, professional, and constructive. Here are 20 other ways to say “unfortunately” in a formal email, each with a definition and example scenarios to help you use them effectively.
1. Regrettably
Definition: This word expresses regret or sorrow over an unavoidable situation or decision.
Scenario: Declining a project proposal.
- Example 1: Regrettably, we are unable to approve your project proposal due to budget constraints.
- Example 2: Regrettably, our team will not be able to participate in the upcoming seminar.
2. I’m afraid
Definition: This phrase softens the delivery of bad news and shows empathy.
Scenario: Informing a client about a delay.
- Example 1: I’m afraid we won’t be able to deliver the product by the agreed deadline.
- Example 2: I’m afraid the requested document is not available at this moment.
3. With regret
Definition: Similar to “regrettably,” this phrase conveys that the speaker feels sorry about the situation.
Scenario: Canceling a scheduled meeting.
- Example 1: With regret, I must inform you that our meeting on Thursday has been canceled.
- Example 2: With regret, I have to announce that we will not be able to offer you the position.
4. Sadly
Definition: This word conveys a sense of disappointment about an outcome.
Scenario: Informing about a lost opportunity.
- Example 1: Sadly, the opportunity has passed, and we cannot accept new submissions.
- Example 2: Sadly, the candidate did not meet the required qualifications.
5. It is with great reluctance
Definition: This phrase indicates that a decision was made unwillingly.
Scenario: Communicating a decision to cease collaboration.
- Example 1: It is with great reluctance that we have decided to terminate our collaboration with your firm.
- Example 2: It is with great reluctance that we must turn down your proposal.
6. Due to unforeseen circumstances
Definition: Used to explain that an unexpected event has caused a change of plans.
Scenario: Postponing an event.
- Example 1: Due to unforeseen circumstances, the conference has been postponed.
- Example 2: Due to unforeseen circumstances, we will not be able to attend the meeting.
7. As it turns out
Definition: This phrase introduces information that may be unexpected or disappointing.
Scenario: Notifying a client of a service unavailability.
- Example 1: As it turns out, we do not have the capability to handle this request at this time.
- Example 2: As it turns out, our team is currently at full capacity and cannot take on new projects.
8. It is unfortunate
Definition: Directly states that something is regrettable or sad.
Scenario: Informing about a negative outcome.
- Example 1: It is unfortunate that we could not reach a mutual agreement.
- Example 2: It is unfortunate that the event had to be canceled.
9. To my dismay
Definition: Expresses personal disappointment over an outcome.
Scenario: Responding to a failed negotiation.
- Example 1: To my dismay, we were unable to finalize the contract terms.
- Example 2: To my dismay, the deal did not go through as planned.
10. I regret to inform you
Definition: A formal way of delivering bad news, expressing regret.
Scenario: Announcing a rejected application.
- Example 1: I regret to inform you that your application for the position was not successful.
- Example 2: I regret to inform you that we will not be proceeding with your proposal.
11. It is with a heavy heart
Definition: Indicates that the speaker feels emotional about the situation.
Scenario: Announcing a business closure.
- Example 1: It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our operations in the city.
- Example 2: It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to a valued team member.
12. I must apologize
Definition: A formal way to express sorrow for a situation or mistake.
Scenario: Addressing a service issue.
- Example 1: I must apologize for the inconvenience caused by the delay.
- Example 2: I must apologize for the error in your recent order.
13. It is a pity
Definition: Expresses regret or disappointment about a situation.
Scenario: Declining an invitation.
- Example 1: It is a pity that I cannot attend the event due to prior commitments.
- Example 2: It is a pity that we could not find a suitable date for the meeting.
14. Unfortunately, this is beyond our control
Definition: Used when the situation is not the speaker’s fault or influence.
Scenario: Explaining an external factor causing an issue.
- Example 1: Unfortunately, this is beyond our control, as it involves a third-party service.
- Example 2: Unfortunately, this is beyond our control due to external regulations.
15. I’m sorry to say
Definition: A more personal way to express regret or deliver bad news.
Scenario: Delivering a performance review.
- Example 1: I’m sorry to say that your performance did not meet our expectations this quarter.
- Example 2: I’m sorry to say that we cannot approve your request for additional resources.
16. It is regrettable
Definition: Indicates that something is unfortunate and lamentable.
Scenario: Rejecting a funding request.
- Example 1: It is regrettable that we cannot allocate funds to your project at this time.
- Example 2: It is regrettable that we have to decline your proposal.
17. We apologize for any inconvenience
Definition: A standard phrase used to express regret over a problem or inconvenience.
Scenario: Informing customers about a temporary outage.
- Example 1: We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the server downtime.
- Example 2: We apologize for any inconvenience this delay may have caused.
18. It is disappointing
Definition: Expresses a letdown or lack of satisfaction with an outcome.
Scenario: Responding to a failed partnership.
- Example 1: It is disappointing that we were unable to form a partnership at this time.
- Example 2: It is disappointing that the merger did not go through as planned.
19. Sadly, we cannot
Definition: Directly communicates the inability to meet a request or expectation.
Scenario: Declining a sponsorship request.
- Example 1: Sadly, we cannot provide sponsorship for your event this year.
- Example 2: Sadly, we cannot participate in your initiative at this time.
20. It is unfortunate that we have to decline
Definition: A polite way to say that something is being rejected or turned down.
Scenario: Refusing a bid or tender.
- Example 1: It is unfortunate that we have to decline your bid due to competitive pricing.
- Example 2: It is unfortunate that we have to decline your offer as it does not meet our requirements.
Justin Taylor is a wordsmith who knows how to keep the conversation lively and fun. His sharp wit and clever insights ensure that every reply is both meaningful and delightful. With Justin, your replies will never be dull.
