Meaning & Definition of word "Incidentally"
to
Incidentally
/ˌɪn.sɪˈdɛn.tə.li/
adverb:
- 1. In an incidental manner; as a chance occurrence.
- Example: I met her incidentally at the conference last week.
- 2. By the way; used to introduce a new subject in conversation.
- Example: Incidentally, have you heard about the new restaurant opening downtown?
- 3. Not intentionally; by accident.
- Example: He incidentally revealed the surprise party while talking.
- 4. In addition to, but not directly related.
- Example: The project was successful, and incidentally, it saved us money as well.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'incidentalis', from 'incidere' meaning 'to fall upon' or 'to happen'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
Incidentally speaking:
Mentioning something indirectly or as a side note.
Just to mention:
A phrase often used to introduce an incidental point.
By the way:
A common way to introduce a side comment.
Related Words
incident:
An event or occurrence, typically something unusual or noteworthy.
incidental:
Occurring as a minor accompaniment or by chance.
incidentality:
The quality of being incidental or minor.
Slang Meanings of incidentally
Meaning: Just a thought
Example Sentence: Oh, incidentally, I saw your ex at the cafe.
Meaning: Not a big deal
Example Sentence: He mentioned it incidentally, so it wasn't anything serious.