# accidentalness

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/accidentalness
Updated: 2026-06-22

## Definition

the quality of something happening by chance rather than on purpose. It describes how likely it is that an event was not planned.

For teachers: the quality or state of occurring by chance or without intention. Often used in philosophical or statistical contexts to describe the lack of a causal connection between events.

## Examples

- The accidentalness of the meeting made the friendship feel more special.
- The philosopher argued that the accidentalness of the universe's formation suggests there is no inherent purpose to our existence.
- While the two events occurred simultaneously, their accidentalness was merely a coincidence of timing, as there was no underlying causal mechanism linking the two separate systems.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.