Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /fɔːrˈtjuːɪtəs/
KK: /fɔrˈtjuːɪtəs/
Definition
Happening by chance, often in a lucky or fortunate way.
Example
It was fortuitous that I found my lost keys just before leaving the house.
Conversation

I ran into Sarah at the café today, which was quite fortuitous since I wanted to ask her about the project.

That's awesome! It’s always nice to catch up unexpectedly.

Yeah, I never expected to see her there, but it turned out to be a really good conversation.

Sometimes those fortuitous moments lead to the best ideas!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
accidental
serendipitous
lucky
Antonyms
intentional
unlucky
planned
Root Explanation
Fortuitous → It is derived from 'fortuitus' (meaning accidental or happening by chance) from Latin 'fors' (meaning chance or luck). The word 'fortuitous' refers to something that happens by chance, often in a fortunate or lucky way.
Memory Tip
Think of 'chance' ('fors') to remember that 'fortuitous' means something that happens by accident or luck.
Visually Confused Words
unfortuitous
nonfortuitous
fatuitous
gratuitous