German word

leider

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈlaɪ̯dɐ/

Meaning

  • adverbunfortunately

Example

Leider kann ich heute nicht kommen.

Unfortunately, I can't come today.

Illustration for leider (unfortunately)

More examples

Ich habe leider keine Zeit für ein Treffen.

Unfortunately, I don't have time for a meeting.

Core concept

A disappointing fact is placed under a small sign of regret.

Common phrases

  • leider keine Zeit

    unfortunately no time

  • leider nicht möglich

    unfortunately not possible

  • leider nicht da

    unfortunately not there

Similar words

schade: Expresses disappointment in a short, direct remark.
dummerweise: Describes an unfortunate result caused by bad luck or poor timing.
traurigerweise: Describes a regrettable situation with a clear sense of sadness.

Definition in German

Drückt Bedauern über eine Situation aus und wird genutzt, um ein unerwünschtes Ergebnis kurz zu kommentieren.

Word origin

The adverb leider comes from the German adjective leid, which denotes sorrow or distress, through the Middle High German form leider.

Usage tips

  • Leider expresses regret about the situation rather than simply meaning that an event is bad, so it often softens a refusal or negative answer.

Opposites

Word lists with this word