Which phrase best captures the essence of 'fortuitous'?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Study for the SAT Vocabulary 2025 Test. Master vocabulary with flashcards and questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The phrase that best captures the essence of 'fortuitous' is one that emphasizes an unexpected occurrence that yields a positive outcome. 'Fortuitous' refers to events that happen by chance in a way that is fortunate or beneficial. Therefore, unplanned yet favorable circumstances align with the definition of the word.

While the other phrases describe different situations, they don't reflect the serendipitous nature of 'fortuitous.' For instance, 'deliberate and systematic' conveys a sense of intention and planned action, which contrasts sharply with the randomness implied by 'fortuitous.' Similarly, 'complicated and confusing' suggests a lack of clarity or direct benefits, and 'neglected and overlooked' signifies something that has been ignored and does not carry the implication of a fortunate chance encounter. Hence, the selection of 'unplanned but beneficial' aligns perfectly with the meaning of 'fortuitous.'