accidentally
adv. manner B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˌæksəˈdɛnəɫi// UK //ˌæksɪdˈɛntəli// ac·ci·den·tal·ly
adv. by mistake or without planning to. You use this when something happens that you did not intend to do.
adv. happening by chance, unintentionally, or as a result of an unforeseen event.
I accidentally deleted the wrong file from my computer.
While cleaning the kitchen, she accidentally knocked a glass off the counter and it shattered on the floor.
The researchers accidentally discovered the new compound while they were attempting to refine a completely different chemical process for industrial use.
From accidental + -ly.
Usage
Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of the clause.
Pitfall
I did it by accidentallyI did it accidentallyLearners often confuse the adverb 'accidentally' with the prepositional phrase 'by accident'.