By accident

usgb
adverb

Something happening unexpectedly or without planning.

I met him by accident at the grocery store.
Visual representation of "by accident" - Something happening unexpectedly or without planning.

Often appears as...

  • meet someone by accident
  • discover by accident
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "by accident"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Events

Use 'by accident' when something happens without a plan, like running into a friend while shopping.

Illustration for Unexpected Events
I found this rare book by accident when I wasn’t even looking for it.
LampPro Tip 2/3

No Fault Implied

'By accident' implies no blame; it's used when the outcome wasn't on purpose.

Illustration for No Fault Implied
He deleted the file by accident, not because he was careless.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Positive Surprises

Sometimes 'by accident' leads to good outcomes, like discoveries or new experiences.

Illustration for Positive Surprises
They invented the sticky note by accident.
Visual representation of the word "By accident"

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