What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incidental
Example
The music was just incidental to the main event. [incidental: adjective]
Example
I happened to meet her incidentally while I was out shopping. [incidentally: adverb]
accompanying
Example
The accompanying booklet provides additional information about the exhibit. [accompanying: adjective]
Example
She played the piano accompanying the singer's performance. [accompanying: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accompanying is more commonly used than incidental in everyday language. Accompanying is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while incidental is less common and often used in specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incidental and accompanying?
Both incidental and accompanying can be used in formal and informal contexts, but incidental may be perceived as more casual or conversational.
