How to Spell Accidentally

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 07 Feb 2024

Understanding the proper spelling of frequently used words is critical not only for academic success but also for effective communication in everyday life. This article focuses on one such word - accidentally, exploring its correct spelling, definition, transcription, usage examples, common spelling mistakes, and memory aids to ensure accurate spelling.

Correct Spelling of Accidentally

The correct spelling of the word in question is accidentally. It is important to pay attention to the double 'c' followed by a double 'l', which is a common source of spelling errors.

Definition of Accidentally

Accidentally refers to something happening by chance or without intention. It often implies an unforeseen event occurring as a result of an error or negligence.

Transcription of Accidentally

The transcription for accidentally in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /əkˈsɪdəntəli/.

Examples of Using Accidentally

  • I accidentally spilled coffee on my shirt this morning.
  • She accidentally deleted an important file from her computer.
  • He apologized after accidentally stepping on her toes.
  • They accidentally discovered a hidden room in their house.

Common Spelling Mistakes

  • Accidentaly - missing the second 'l'
  • Accidantally - incorrect vowel 'a' instead of the second 'e'
  • Accidently - an incorrect omission of 'al' before the 'ly'
  • Acidentaly - omitting one 'c' is a common error

These spellings are considered incorrect because they deviate from the standard spelling of accidentally as accepted in English spelling conventions.

How to Remember the Correct Spelling

A useful technique for remembering the spelling of accidentally is to break it down to its root word 'accident' plus the suffix '-ally'. Reminding oneself that the word involves an action performed in the manner of an accident (hence the -ally) can help cement its correct spelling in one's mind.

FAQ

What does the word mean?
It means something happening by chance, without being planned or intended.

How to spell in Spanish?
In Spanish, it is spelled as accidentalmente.

Words Closely Related: unintentional, fortuitous, inadvertent.

Synonyms: unintentionally, inadvertently, unexpectedly.

Differences in American and British Versions

There is no difference in the spelling of accidentally between American and British English variations.

In Which Academic Dictionaries Can You Find This Word?

  1. Oxford English Dictionary
  2. Merriam-Webster Dictionary
  3. Cambridge Dictionary


#Grammar, #Spelling, #EnglishLanguage, #Education, #Accidentally, #Vocabulary

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