A2noun1K

Accident

UK /["/ˈæksɪdənt/"]/US /["/ˈæksɪdənt/"]/

Definition

an unpleasant event, especially in a vehicle, that happens unexpectedly and causes injury or damage

In simple words: Something that happens unexpectedly, usually causing harm or damage.

Examples

  • The car accident caused a long traffic jam.
  • He had an accident while riding his bicycle.
  • It was just a small accident; no one was hurt.
  • She accidentally spilled her drink on the table.
  • The accident happened late at night when it was dark.
  • Making mistakes is part of learning; don't call it an accident.
  • He referred to the unexpected delay as an unfortunate accident.
  • The accident with the truck blocked the highway for hours.

Usage notes

Use 'accident' in both formal and informal contexts when discussing unintentional events. Avoid using it in situations where intent is involved or when describing planned events.

Grammar pattern

accident + object

Memory hint

Imagine a car 'accident' as a car 'accidentally' hitting something.

Collocations

  • bad
  • dreadful
  • horrible
  • be involved in
  • have
  • meet with
  • happen
  • occur
  • take place
  • black spot
  • victim
  • prevention
  • in an/​the accident
  • an accident involving
  • an accident waiting to happen
  • the scene of the accident
  • mere
  • pure
  • sheer
  • by accident
  • an accident of birth
  • an accident of history
  • be no accident that…

Synonyms

  • mishap
  • crash
  • collision
  • event
  • misfortune

Antonyms

  • intentional act
  • design

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'incident' - 'incident' can imply a more serious event.
  • Using 'accident' in a context where something was done deliberately.
  • Incorrectly using 'accident' as a verb.