Incidentally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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incidentally
[หษชnsษชหdษntli ]
Definitions
in a casual or chance manner
By the way; in passing; without the writer's/speaker's intention or expectation.
Synonyms
by the way, coincidentally, in passing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| incidentally |
This word is used to introduce a topic that is slightly related to what was previously said. It often has a connotation of adding extra but interesting information.
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| by the way |
This phrase is commonly used to change the subject slightly or to add additional information that isn't directly related to the main conversation. It is informal and conversational.
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| in passing |
This phrase is used to describe mentioning something quickly and without much detail, often while talking about something else.
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| coincidentally |
This word is used to point out a happening that occurs by chance at the same time as another event. It implies a surprising connection or occurrence.
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Examples of usage
- Incidentally, have you seen John lately?
- She told me that, incidentally, she was getting married.
- We met incidentally at the grocery store.
happening by chance or casually
Occurring casually in connection with something else.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| incidentally |
Used to introduce a different topic or something less important that is related to the current topic.
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| casual |
Describes something that happens by chance without specific planning or something relaxed and informal.
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| unplanned |
Refers to something that happens without prior planning or preparation.
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| random |
Describes something that is chosen, done, or occurring without a particular pattern or plan.
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Examples of usage
- An incidentally important detail.
- The incidentally mentioned guest.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Communication
- In conversations, people often use this term to introduce a side note or additional point that is not the central topic.
- This word can help signal a shift in focus, which makes discussions more dynamic and layered.
- It serves as a bridge in narratives, connecting main ideas with peripheral thoughts without losing coherence.
Cultural Context
- In media, 'incidentally' is commonly used in journalism to introduce secondary information that enriches the main story.
- Storytellers often use it to weave in humor or relatable anecdotes, making their narratives more engaging.
- It can suggest a casual tone, often used in informal writing and speech to create a friendly atmosphere.
Psychology
- Using this term can indicate a cognitive shift in focus, as individuals draw connections between different ideas.
- In conversation, it can trigger memory recall, bringing forth details that may have been overlooked.
- It reflects how people navigate discussions, often revealing underlying thoughts and feelings that influence dialogue.
Literature
- Authors often use 'incidentally' to layer their narratives, seamlessly inserting details that enhance character development.
- The word appears frequently in essays and articles, helping writers introduce supplementary arguments without disrupting the main thesis.
- In poetry, it may serve to juxtapose primary themes with fleeting thoughts, adding depth to the reading experience.
Origin of 'incidentally'
Main points about word origin
- This term is derived from the Latin word 'incidentalis', meaning 'falling upon' or 'happening'.
- The word entered English in the 17th century, combining 'incident' and the suffix '-ally' which makes it an adverb.
- Originally, 'incidentally' pertained to events that occurred casually or unexpectedly.
The word 'incidentally' originated in the late 18th century from the word 'incidental', which comes from the Latin word 'incidere', meaning 'fall upon' or 'happen'. Over time, 'incidentally' has evolved to be used to introduce a related topic or to mention something in passing.
See also: incidence, incident, incidental, incidents.