What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coincidence
Example
It was just a coincidence that we both wore the same shirt today. [coincidence: noun]
Example
I bumped into my old friend at the airport, what a coincidence! [coincidence: exclamation]
accident
Example
He had a car accident on his way to work this morning. [accident: noun]
Example
I accidentally spilled coffee on my new shirt. [accidentally: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accident is more commonly used than coincidence in everyday language. Accident is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while coincidence is less common and typically used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coincidence and accident?
While coincidence is associated with a more formal tone, accident can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
