Accident: meaning, definitions and examples

A general term for an unexpected event, often causing damage or injury. Commonly used for car crashes or other unplanned events.

• He was late because of a car accident.
• There was an accident in the factory.

A neutral term that refers to any event or occurrence, often used for minor or non-damaging events. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

• There was a security incident at the office.
• The incident at the party was quickly resolved.

Refers to a minor accident or unlucky event, often causing inconvenience rather than serious damage.

• I had a little mishap while cooking dinner.
• The trip went smoothly except for a small mishap with our luggage.

Specifically refers to two or more objects hitting each other, often used in the context of vehicles.

• The collision between the two cars caused a traffic jam.
• There was a collision between a truck and a bus on the highway.

Used to describe an unexpected event, often resulting in damage or injury. This term is often used in the context of traffic collisions or workplace injuries.

• He was involved in a car accident last night.
• The factory reported an accident that injured three workers.

Refers to a specific event or occurrence, particularly one that is unusual or noteworthy. It can be either positive or negative but is often used for significant events that need to be reported or investigated.

• The incident at the mall caused a lot of concern among shoppers.
• There was an incident at the school involving two students.

Describes a small or minor accident, often resulting in inconvenience rather than serious harm. This term usually carries a lighter, sometimes amusing connotation.

• Despite the mishap with the cake, the party was a success.
• A mishap with the luggage delayed their trip by a few hours.

This term is used to describe an unexpected event that results in harm or damage. It is often used in formal contexts such as reports, news, and legal documents.

• The accident on the highway caused a major traffic jam.
• She had a minor accident at work but fortunately wasn't seriously injured.

This word is used to refer to minor, unfortunate events that are not as severe as accidents. It often has a slightly less serious connotation and can be used in more casual contexts.

• There was a little mishap in the kitchen, but the dinner turned out fine.
• Despite a few mishaps during the trip, they had a great time overall.