Accidental Meaning
/ˌæk.sɪˈdɛn.tl̩/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
adjPertaining to accident and not essence; thus, inessential; incidental; secondary.
adjPertaining to accident and not essence; thus, inessential; incidental; secondary., Nonessential to something's inherent nature (especially in Aristotelian thought).
Sentence Examples
That discovery was quite accidental.
Columbus' discovery of America was accidental.
Unfortunately, Apple doesn't provide a warranty for accidental damages.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
None
CEFR Practice Quiz
The scientist made an ____ discovery while testing a different hypothesis.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The discovery of the ancient ruins was completely ____.
Word Origin & History
From Middle English accidental, from Anglo-Norman accidentel, Middle French accidentel, accidental, and their source, Late Latin accidēntālis; corresponding to accident + -al.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"The way to trueth is but one and simple, that of particular profit and benefit of affaires a man hath in charge, double, uneven and accidentall [translating fortuite]."
— 1603, Michel de Montaigne, translated by John Florio, Essays, translation of original in French, III.1:
"He conceived it just that accidentals ... should sink with the substance of the accusation."
— 1662, Fuller, Worthies of England:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The scientist made an ____ discovery while testing a different hypothesis.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The discovery of the ancient ruins was completely ____.