Definitions
- Describing a fortunate or beneficial event that occurs by chance or luck. - Referring to a discovery or realization that happens unexpectedly and leads to positive outcomes. - Talking about a happy coincidence or unexpected surprise that brings joy or excitement.
- Referring to something that happens without warning or preparation. - Describing an event or situation that is surprising or unforeseen. - Talking about a turn of events that is not anticipated or predicted.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe events that happen without prior planning or expectation.
- 2Both words can refer to positive or negative outcomes.
- 3Both words involve a sense of surprise or unpredictability.
What is the difference?
- 1Connotation: Serendipitous has a more positive connotation, while unexpected can be neutral or negative.
- 2Cause: Serendipitous implies that the event occurred due to chance or luck, while unexpected does not specify a cause.
- 3Intensity: Serendipitous suggests a stronger sense of excitement or joy than unexpected.
- 4Usage: Serendipitous is less common and more formal than unexpected, which is a more versatile and commonly used word.
- 5Expectation: Unexpected implies that there was an expectation or assumption that was not met, while serendipitous does not necessarily involve prior expectations.
Remember this!
Serendipitous and unexpected are synonyms that describe events that occur without prior planning or expectation. However, serendipitous has a more positive connotation and implies a fortunate or beneficial outcome due to chance or luck, while unexpected can be neutral or negative and does not specify a cause. Serendipitous is less common and more formal than unexpected, which is a versatile and commonly used word.