B2adverb2K

Accidentally

UK /["/ˌæksɪˈdentəli/"]/US /["/ˌæksɪˈdentəli/"]/

Definition

by chance; in a way that was not planned

In simple words: By mistake, without intending to.

Examples

  • As I turned around, I accidentally hit him in the face.
  • The damage couldn't have been caused accidentally.

Usage notes

Use 'accidentally' to describe something that happens by chance, usually without planning. It's appropriate in casual and formal contexts. Avoid using it in very formal writing where precision is needed.

Grammar pattern

accidentally + verb

Memory hint

Sounds like 'accident' — think of an accident that wasn't planned.

Collocations

  • accidentally delete
  • accidentally spill
  • accidentally touch
  • accidentally reveal
  • accidentally bump

Synonyms

  • unintentionally
  • mistakenly
  • inadvertently
  • unknowingly
  • accidently

Antonyms

  • intentionally
  • deliberately

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'intentionally' — they have opposite meanings.
  • Omitting 'ly' — students often write 'accidental' instead of 'accidentally'.
  • Using the wrong verb form following 'accidentally'.