adj

coincidental

KOH-ihn-sih-dehn-tl

Coincidental (adj) means happening by chance at the same time, rather than through planning or connection. Example: “The similarity between the two designs was purely coincidental.”

adj

Happening by chance at the same time, rather than through planning or connection.

"The similarity between the two designs was purely coincidental."

"Any resemblance to real events is coincidental."

How to use coincidental

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHappening by accident or chance, not on purpose or through cause and effect.

Common pairings

purely coincidental merely coincidental

Word forms

more coincidental comparative, most coincidental superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The similarity between the two designs was purely _____.

Etymology

From co- + incidental.

Rhymes for coincidental

mental dental rental parental Oriental elemental accidental ornamental judgmental incidental monumental regimental

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Frequently asked questions

What does “coincidental” mean?

The word “coincidental” means happening by chance at the same time, rather than through planning or connection. In plain terms, happening by accident or chance, not on purpose or through cause and effect.

How do you pronounce “coincidental”?

“Coincidental” is pronounced KOH-ihn-sih-dehn-tl (/ˈkəʊ.ɪn.sɪˌdɛn.tl̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “coincidental” in a sentence?

Here is “coincidental” used in a sentence: “The similarity between the two designs was purely coincidental.”

What part of speech is “coincidental”?

“Coincidental” is an adjective.