What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
serendipitous
Example
It was serendipitous that I ran into my old friend at the airport. [serendipitous: adjective]
Example
The discovery of penicillin was a serendipitous accident. [serendipitous: adjective]
accidental
Example
The broken vase was accidental, I didn't mean to knock it over. [accidental: adjective]
Example
I accidentally deleted all my files from the computer. [accidentally: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accidental is more commonly used than serendipitous in everyday language. Accidental is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while serendipitous is less common and refers to a fortunate or unexpected discovery or occurrence.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between serendipitous and accidental?
Both serendipitous and accidental can be used in formal and informal contexts, but serendipitous may be more appropriate in formal writing or speech due to its positive connotation.
