What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coincidentally
Example
I bumped into my old friend coincidentally at the grocery store. [coincidentally: adverb]
Example
Coincidentally, we both chose the same book for our book club meeting. [coincidentally: adverb]
accidentally
Example
I accidentally spilled coffee on my shirt this morning. [accidentally: adverb]
Example
He accidentally deleted all his important files from the computer. [accidentally: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accidentally is more commonly used than coincidentally in everyday language. Accidentally is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while coincidentally is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coincidentally and accidentally?
Both coincidentally and accidentally can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, coincidentally may sound slightly more formal due to its less frequent usage.
