The word 'unfortunate' can describe a negative or sorrowful situation, which aligns with the emotional state of being 'sad.' The clue uses a synonym to point to a feeling of unhappiness.

Q3.

In which puzzle was the clue "Unfortunate" last seen?

This clue was last seen in the WSJ Crossword on January 24, 2026.

Q4.

What does the word "SAD" mean in this context?

Sad means feeling or showing sorrow; unhappy.

Q5.

What are some other crossword clues that share the same answer?

Wearing an upside-down smile, "When I'm feeling ___, I simply remember my favorite things, and then I don't feel so bad!" (lyric from "The Sound of Music"), Gloomy, Mournful, Disconsolate

The clue “Unfortunate” is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles like the WSJ crossword. For the puzzle dated January 24 2026, the definitive 3-letter answer is: SAD.

Expert Tip: When you’re stuck, try to analyze the structure of the clue itself. Is it a direct definition, a pun, a fill-in-the-blank, or a pop culture reference? Identifying the type of clue you’re dealing with is a key skill for improving your solving speed.

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Unfortunate WSJ Crossword Clue

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WSJ Crossword January 24 2026 Answers

Clue History: Unfortunate

Frequently Asked Questions About This Clue

What is the most likely answer for the crossword clue "Unfortunate"?

Why is "SAD" the answer to the clue "Unfortunate"?

In which puzzle was the clue "Unfortunate" last seen?

What does the word "SAD" mean in this context?

What are some other crossword clues that share the same answer?

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