Answer:
To answer this question, we need to understand the meaning and usage of the word unfortunately and its possible alternatives. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary1, unfortunately means:
in an unfortunate manner : regrettably
by bad luck : as it turns out
Therefore, unfortunately is used to express regret, disappointment, or sorrow over something that has happened or might happen. It is often used to introduce a negative or undesirable outcome or consequence.
For example:
Unfortunately, the flight was delayed due to bad weather.
I would love to join you, but unfortunately I have other plans.
In sentence 2, the word unfortunately is used to introduce the negative outcome of the speaker’s decision to go to the beach instead of studying for the test. The speaker regrets that they failed the test because of their choice.
Now, let’s look at the possible alternatives and see if they make sense in this context.
Therefore means for that reason or consequently. It is used to introduce a logical result or inference from a previous statement or premise. It does not express any emotion or attitude. For example:
She studied hard for the test; therefore, she passed with flying colors.
He forgot his umbrella; therefore, he got wet in the rain.
If we replace unfortunately with therefore in sentence 2, we get:
I decided to go to the beach instead of studying for the test. Therefore, I failed it.
This does not make sense because it implies that the speaker intended or expected to fail the test as a logical consequence of their decision. It also does not convey any regret or disappointment over the outcome.
Otherwise means in a different way or manner. It is used to introduce a contrast or alternative to a previous statement or condition. It can also express a warning or implication of what might happen if something is not done or changed. For example:
She likes to read books; otherwise, she gets bored easily.
You should study hard for the test; otherwise, you might fail it.
If we replace unfortunately with otherwise in sentence 2, we get:
I decided to go to the beach instead of studying for the test. Otherwise, I failed it.
This does not make sense because it implies that the speaker failed the test in a different way or manner than going to the beach. It also does not convey any regret or disappointment over the outcome.
Likewise means in like manner or similarly. It is used to indicate agreement, similarity, or comparison between two things or situations. It can also express a polite response to something that someone has said or done. For example:
She loves chocolate; likewise, I do too.
Thank you for your help; likewise, you’re welcome.
If we replace unfortunately with likewise in sentence 2, we get:
I decided to go to the beach instead of studying for the test. Likewise, I failed it.
This does not make sense because it implies that the speaker failed the test in a similar way or manner as going to the beach. It also does not convey any regret or disappointment over the outcome.
Therefore, the correct answer is B. No change should be made. The word unfortunately is appropriate and suitable in sentence 2 because it expresses the speaker’s regret and disappointment over failing the test as a result of their decision to go to the beach instead of studying.