accident
/ˈæksɪdɛnt/An unfortunate incident that happens unexpectedly and unintentionally, typically resulting in damage, injury, or loss.
The car accident caused serious injuries to the driver.
The accident on the highway led to a major traffic jam.
Often used in legal and insurance contexts to describe events requiring investigation or compensation.
A minor or trivial event that happens by chance.
It was just an accident that I bumped into my old friend at the mall.
Meeting her was a happy accident.
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💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
Use 'accident' carefully in formal writing—ensure it refers to a significant, unintended event. In casual speech, it can describe minor mishaps.
⚡Gold Rule
Legal Context
In legal or insurance contexts, 'accident' often requires proof of unintentionality and causation.
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'accidens' (happening), from 'accidere' (to happen).
📝Usage Notes
In formal contexts, 'accident' often implies legal or insurance implications. In casual speech, it can refer to minor, unintentional events.