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, I was just thinking about you when you called. [coincidentally: adverb]
serendipitously
Example
I serendipitously found a $20 bill on the sidewalk while walking to work. [serendipitously: adverb]
Example
Serendipitously, I stumbled upon a great book while browsing in the library. [serendipitously: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Coincidentally is more commonly used than serendipitously in everyday language. Coincidentally is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while serendipitously is less common and may be used in more specific or formal situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between coincidentally and serendipitously?
While coincidentally is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, serendipitously is considered more formal or literary. Serendipitously may be used in academic or professional writing to convey a sense of sophistication or elegance.
