We consider the generalized Lorentz space Lψ, q defined via a continuous and concave function ψ and the Fourier series of a function with respect to an unbounded orthonormal system. Some new Fourier and Jackson-Nikol'skii type inequalities in this frame are stated, proved and discussed. In particular, the derived results generalize and unify several well-known results but also some new applications are pointed out. © 2021 The Author(s).