Words / C2

for-TYOO-it-uh-s/fɔːˈtjuːɪtəs/

Fortuitous means it happened by chance, and the result is often lucky. Careful writers still hear the “by chance” core; casual writers treat it as a posh fortunate. In speech say by chance or lucky — fortuitous in conversation can sound like showing off.

Meaning

Happening by chance, often with a lucky result.

Examples

• “A fortuitous meeting led to the job.”
• “A fortuitous delay meant they missed the crash.”
• “The seating plan was fortuitous: rivals became allies.”

Good to know

By chance (often lucky). Not a fancy “fortunate.” Everyday: lucky.

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