Synonyms for

Accidental

Verb / ˌæksʌˈdentʌl / / ˌæksʌˈdenʌl / Another word for accidental — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

happening by chance or without intention

Synonyms & similar words

inadvertent unintentional unplanned unexpected unforeseen inadvertent random chance fortuitous incidental casual unintended unwitting unmeant unpremeditated careless negligent thoughtless heedless unconscious unaware

Synonyms by register

Formal

unforeseen inadvertent unintended chance

Informal

random haphazard out of the blue by chance

Literary

fortuitous serendipitous stray

Antonyms

intentional deliberate planned purposeful calculated willed

Common collocations

  • accidental discovery
  • accidental meeting
  • accidental death
  • accidental damage
  • accidental overdose
  • accidental fall
  • accidental contact

Word family

noun accident
adverb accidentally

Usage note

Often used to describe events that happen without planning or intention. Be mindful of the distinction between 'accidental' and 'intentional' in legal or formal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. I accidentally spilled my juice on the table.
  2. He made an accidental discovery while hiking in the woods.
  3. The fire was started by an accidental spark.
  4. She made an accidental purchase online.
  5. The artist used accidental splatters of paint in his masterpiece.

Quotes

  • 'Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.' - Lao Tzu
  • 'In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.' - Albert Einstein
  • 'Chance favors the prepared mind.' - Louis Pasteur

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