hapless

What does “hapless” mean?

adjective.(especially of a person) unfortunate.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in contexts involving misfortune or adversity, typically highlighting the plight of individuals facing unfortunate circumstances. It emphasizes a sense of helplessness or victimhood, distinguishing it from similar words like "unfortunate," which lacks the connotation of consistent bad luck or misfortune inherent in the usage of this term.

Common Confusions

Hapless implies a persistent state of misfortune or bad luck, while unfortunate usually suggests a singular instance of bad luck without the connotation of ongoing adversity.

Example Sentences

• The hapless traveler missed every single connecting flight.