also: さっき
noun, na-adjective
misfortune; adverse fortune; hapless fate
Refers to an unlucky or unfortunate destiny, often with a literary or slightly formal tone. Can be used as a noun or adjectival noun.
彼の一生は数奇な運命に翻弄された。
His whole life was at the mercy of a hapless fate.
数奇な巡り合わせで再会した。
By a twist of adverse fortune, they met again.
na-adjective, noun
checkered; eventful; full of ups and downs
Describes a life, career, or path marked by many changes, often dramatic or varied. Commonly used in the phrase 数奇な人生 (a checkered life).
彼は数奇な人生を送った。
He led a checkered life.
その作家の数奇な経歴が注目を集めた。
The writer's eventful career attracted attention.
The kanji 数 (number/fate) and 奇 (strange/unusual) combine to suggest an unusual or fated course of events. The reading すうき is the standard on'yomi; the alternative reading さっき is irregular and rare.