Hard luck/lines

usgb
noun

Unfortunate circumstances or bad fortune that someone suffers.

Well, that’s hard luck, but there’s nothing I can do to help.
Visual representation of "hard luck/lines" - Unfortunate circumstances or bad fortune that someone suffers.

Often appears as...

  • that's hard luck
  • bad hard luck

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "hard luck/lines"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Empathy Expected

Use it where you might expect understanding or support from others due to bad circumstances.

Illustration for Empathy Expected
After losing the contest, she said, 'That's hard luck,' hoping for a hug.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Outcome

It expresses a negative outcome that couldn't be predicted or controlled.

Illustration for Negative Outcome
He trained hard but still lost the race. Well, that’s just hard luck.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Overly Formal

The phrase is not very formal; more suitable for casual conversation.

Illustration for Not Overly Formal
She missed the bus due to a flat tire? That's hard luck.
Visual representation of the word "Hard luck/lines"

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