Coincidently vs. Coincidentally — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 7, 2024
Coincidentally is the standard adverb meaning occurring together by chance, while coincidently, a less common form, also means occurring together but is rarely used.
Difference Between Coincidently and Coincidentally
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Key Differences
Coincidentally is widely accepted and used to describe events that happen at the same time by chance, without any plan or arrangement. It implies a surprising or notable occurrence of two or more events aligning in time or context without intentional coordination. For example, running into a friend in an unexpected place can be described as happening coincidentally. On the other hand, coincidently, though technically correct, is seldom found in contemporary usage. It carries a similar meaning but is not the preferred form in modern English.
The use of coincidentally in sentences provides a way to express the element of surprise or serendipity in the occurrence of events. This adverb is commonly employed in both spoken and written English to convey the accidental or unexpected nature of simultaneous occurrences. Conversely, coincidently, due to its rarity, may cause confusion or be considered a mistake or typo for "coincidentally" by readers or listeners unfamiliar with this form.
In terms of usage, coincidentally fits smoothly into everyday language, enhancing descriptions of chance encounters or events with an emphasis on their unexpected nature. It is often used to start a sentence or clause, adding an interesting twist to stories or explanations. Coincidently, while it may serve a similar purpose, is less likely to be recognized or understood, potentially interrupting the flow of communication or distracting from the intended message.
The preference for coincidentally over coincidently reflects broader trends in language where certain forms become dominant due to clarity, frequency of use, and ease of understanding. Language evolves, and the predominance of coincidentally illustrates how common usage can solidify the status of specific words or phrases in English.
Although both adverbs derive from the same root—“coincident,” meaning occurring together—coincidentally has emerged as the clear favorite in modern English usage. Its prevalence underscores the importance of choosing words that are not only technically correct but also resonate with the intended audience and adhere to contemporary standards of communication.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Means occurring together by chance, but is less commonly used.
Describes events that happen at the same time by chance, in a standard and widely accepted manner.
Usage Frequency
Rarely used in modern English.
Commonly used in both spoken and written English.
Communication Flow
May disrupt flow due to its uncommon nature and potential confusion with "coincidentally."
Enhances descriptions of chance events smoothly, fitting well into everyday language.
Audience's Reception
Potentially seen as a typo or mistake, leading to confusion.
Easily recognized and understood, conveying the accidental or surprising nature of events effectively.
Language Evolution
Less favored over time, illustrating language trends away from certain forms.
Dominant due to clarity, frequency of use, and ease of understanding, reflecting language evolution.
Compare with Definitions
Coincidently
Potentially confusing due to its similarity to the more common coincidentally.
He mentioned, coincidently, that he'd be in town.
Coincidentally
Describes an unplanned occurrence of events at the same time.
Coincidentally, we ran into each other at the airport.
Coincidently
Can be interchangeable with coincidentally but is not preferred.
Coincidently, we chose the same vacation dates.
Coincidentally
Commonly used to express surprise or serendipity.
Coincidentally, our ideas were identical.
Coincidently
Rare in modern usage, may be perceived as outdated.
Coincidently, their ideas were similar, surprising the team.
Coincidentally
Enhances narratives with an element of chance.
Coincidentally, the solution came to him in a dream.
Coincidently
Reflects variability in language use and preference.
Their research topics aligned coincidently, leading to collaboration.
Coincidentally
Reflects established usage in both formal and informal contexts.
They coincidentally chose the same words.
Coincidently
An adverb indicating events happening together by chance; less commonly used.
They arrived coincidently at the same time, though it was unplanned.
Coincidentally
Preferred in contemporary English for clarity and familiarity.
I coincidentally found the book she mentioned.
Coincidently
Occurring as or resulting from coincidence.
Coincidentally
In a way that results from chance despite being very unlikely
The three are coincidentally reunited when captured by the enemy
Her dad coincidentally happens to be the accountant at the bank
Coincidently
Happening or existing at the same time.
Coincidentally
Occurring as or resulting from coincidence.
Coincidently
Simultaneously; at the same time
Coincidentally
Happening or existing at the same time.
Coincidently
With coincidence.
Coincidentally
In a coincidental manner.
Coincidently
Happening at the same time
Coincidentally
Happening at the same time
Common Curiosities
Is coincidently a correct word?
Yes, it's a correct form but less commonly used and often considered outdated.
Why is coincidentally more popular than coincidently?
Its frequency of use, clarity, and ease of understanding have made it the dominant form.
Can coincidentally and coincidently be used interchangeably?
Technically, yes, but coincidentally is preferred for clarity and common usage.
Does the use of coincidently affect the understanding of a text?
It might, due to its rarity and potential confusion with the more common "coincidentally."
How should I use coincidentally in a sentence?
Use it to describe surprising occurrences of events happening at the same time by chance.
In which contexts is coincidentally most appropriately used?
In any context where you want to describe events happening at the same time by chance, especially to highlight surprise or serendipity.
What is the origin of coincidentally?
It derives from "coincident," indicating events occurring together, with "-ly" making it an adverb.
Are there any synonyms for coincidentally that can be used instead?
Synonyms include "by chance," "accidentally," and "serendipitously," depending on the context.
What does coincidentally mean?
It means occurring at the same time by chance, without intentional planning.
How has the preference for coincidentally over coincidently evolved?
Preference is shaped by language use trends, with coincidentally becoming favored for its widespread recognition and ease of use.
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Maham LiaqatCo-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.