olyckligt

Olyckligt is a Swedish word primarily used as an adverb meaning "unfortunately" or "unluckily." It can also function as the neuter singular form of the adjective olycklig, used with neuter nouns such as ett olyckligt val ("an unfortunate choice"). The fixed expression olyckligt nog is common and translates roughly as "unfortunately" or "regrettably," often used to emphasize a disappointing or unintended outcome.

Etymology and form: The word derives from the noun olycka, meaning misfortune or accident, combined with the suffix -ligt, which forms adverbs and neuter adjectives. As an adjective in neuter singular form, olyckligt appears before a neuter noun (ett olyckligt val).

Usage: Olyckligt nog is widely used in both spoken and written Swedish, though tyvärr is more common in everyday speech. Olyckligt is typically reserved for describing circumstances or events rather than people; for people, the adjective olycklig ("unlucky" or "unfortunate") is used. Examples: "Olyckligt nog blev mötet inställt." "Det var ett olyckligt val."

Cross-linguistic notes: Cognates appear in other Scandinavian languages, such as Norwegian og Danish ulykkelig, reflecting shared Germanic roots.

See also: olycka, olycklig, tyvärr, olyckligt nog.