noun
coincidence
koh-IN-sih-duns/kəʊˈɪnsɪdəns/
A connection between events or circumstances that seems to happen by chance.
By coincidence, the strangers wear identical unusual coats and carry matching purple umbrellas.
Etymology
“Falling upon together” first expressed exact correspondence, then occurrence at the same time. The chance sense developed when the events agreed in timing but had no apparent connection.
In context
This is possible because by coincidence, the sun and the moon appear to be about the same size in our sky.
More examples
- By coincidence, my new neighbor is also my dentist.
- Their matching birthdays are just a coincidence.
- A string of coincidences brings the two families together.
Forms
coincidence · coincidences
coincidental adjective — Occurring by chance rather than design.
Similar words
- fluke
- A fluke is an unlikely event, not necessarily a connection.
- serendipity
- Serendipity involves a fortunate discovery, not just an unexpected connection.