Coincidence: meaning, definitions and examples

When two or more events occur at the same time, seemingly by chance, and they have some connection or significance.

• 'What a coincidence! I was just thinking about you when you called
• ' 'It's pure coincidence that we both chose the same place for our vacation
• '

Unplanned events that often have negative consequences. They can be harmful or damaging.

• 'She broke her leg in a car accident
• ' 'The spill was an accident; nobody meant for it to happen
• '

Refers to the possibility of something happening. It can be used to describe random events or opportunities.

• 'There's a good chance it will rain tomorrow
• ' 'He took a chance and applied for the job
• '

Unplanned or random events that occur by chance but are usually positive or neutral in nature. It's often used in a slightly literary or formal manner.

• 'By sheer happenstance, they met at the coffee shop
• ' 'Their meeting was pure happenstance
• '

Use when referring to two or more events occurring at the same time by chance, without any planning or causal relationship.

• It was just a coincidence that we both wore the same outfit today.
• By a strange coincidence, we both ended up at the same hotel.

Used when discussing a statistical relationship between two variables where changes in one might relate to changes in another.

• Studies show a correlation between exercise and improved mental health.
• The data revealed a positive correlation between income level and education.

Appropriate when talking about a linkage or bond between objects, people, or ideas, implying some form of attachment or relationship.

• There is a direct connection between diet and health.
• Her connection to the charity helped it raise more funds.

Used to describe a mental connection or a formal group/relationship between people or organizations.

• There is a strong association between smoking and lung cancer.
• He joined a professional association to network with others in his field.