What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crash
Example
The car crashed into the wall, causing significant damage. [crashed: past tense]
Example
We heard a loud crash coming from the kitchen. [crash: noun]
accident
Example
He had an accident while riding his bike and broke his arm. [accident: noun]
Example
It was an accident that I spilled coffee on your shirt. [accidental: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accident is more commonly used than crash in everyday language. Accident is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while crash is more specific and often associated with more severe or dramatic events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crash and accident?
Both crash and accident can be used in formal and informal contexts, but accident is generally considered more neutral and appropriate for formal situations.
