Definitions
- Describing a fortunate or happy accident that leads to a positive outcome. - Referring to an unexpected discovery or occurrence that is beneficial or valuable. - Talking about a chance encounter or event that leads to a pleasant surprise or opportunity.
- Referring to something that happens without warning or preparation. - Describing a situation or event that is surprising or unforeseen. - Talking about an outcome or result that is not anticipated or predicted.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe events or situations that are not planned or anticipated.
- 2Both words can refer to positive or negative outcomes.
- 3Both words can be used as adverbs to modify verbs.
What is the difference?
- 1Cause: Serendipitously implies that the unexpected event or outcome is beneficial or lucky, while unexpectedly does not necessarily carry this connotation.
- 2Frequency: Unexpectedly is more commonly used than serendipitously in everyday language.
- 3Emphasis: Serendipitously emphasizes the element of chance or luck, while unexpectedly focuses more on the unexpected nature of the event or situation.
- 4Formality: Serendipitously is less common and more formal than unexpectedly.
Remember this!
Serendipitously and unexpectedly both describe events or situations that are not planned or anticipated. However, serendipitously implies a fortunate or happy accident, while unexpectedly does not carry this connotation. Unexpectedly is more common and versatile, while serendipitously is more formal and less frequently used.
