Accidentally: meaning, definitions and examples

When something happens by chance or mistake, often used in everyday situations.

• I accidentally spilled coffee on my shirt.
• He accidentally dropped his phone.

When an action occurs without a deliberate plan, emphasizing the lack of intention, often used in a slightly more formal context.

• He unintentionally hurt her feelings.
• The remark was unintentionally offensive.

When something happens without intention, often in a context showing lack of awareness, can sound more formal.

• She inadvertently left her keys at home.
• The company inadvertently released confidential information.

When something is done without realizing or knowing, often implying ignorance or lack of awareness, can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• She unwittingly revealed the surprise.
• He unwittingly became involved in illegal activities.

This is used when something happens without intention or planning, usually because of an error or oversight.

• She accidentally spilled the coffee on her dress.
• I accidentally deleted the important file.

This phrase is used when something happens in a random manner, often without any intention or planning. It can sometimes imply a positive result.

• We met by chance at the airport.
• I found the missing earring by chance while cleaning.

This phrase is best used when someone does something wrong unintentionally. It often indicates an error.

• He sent the message to the wrong person by mistake.
• I took your keys by mistake.

This is used to describe an event that happens without warning or anticipation. It can be neutral, positive, or negative.

• She showed up at the party unexpectedly.
• The meeting was canceled unexpectedly.