What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mischance
Example
The team's mischance was losing their star player to an injury right before the championship game. [mischance: noun]
Example
It was just a mischance that I missed my flight due to traffic. [mischance: noun]
mishap
Example
I had a mishap with my coffee this morning and spilled it all over my shirt. [mishap: noun]
Example
The chef had a mishap in the kitchen and burned the dish. [mishap: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mishap is more commonly used than mischance in everyday language and covers a wider range of events. Mischance is less common and may be considered outdated in some contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mischance and mishap?
Mischance is more formal and literary in tone, while mishap is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.