accidents

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "accidents" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to unexpected events that cause damage or injury, often in contexts related to safety or incidents. Example: "The report highlighted the increase in traffic accidents during the holiday season."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Since then," says Loftus, "I and many others have planted bizarre memories of accidents: animal attacks, nearly drowning, witnessing demonic possession.

The Guardian

The rubber devices, appropriately known as gap-fillers, are fixed to the sides of platforms near the doors and have apparently eradicated accidents during a year-long trial.

The Guardian

Accidents were a common theme during his childhood.

The Guardian - Sport

There have been 32 recorded accidents over three years at Alton Towers, it emerged on Saturday, from a guest being rushed to hospital after hearing her "neck crack" on the 60mph Rita ride to an employee falling into a water trough.

The Guardian

According to Gilmore, alcohol is the single biggest factor in young men dying between the ages of 16 and 24, whether it be through accidents, suicide or violence.

The Guardian

Elsewhere in Minnesota, the state patrol said at least two people were killed in accidents on icy roads, and troopers handled 475 crashes and more than 700 spinouts statewide by Monday evening.

The Guardian

The device will fly a maximum of 15m and a minimum of 1.75m above its owner's head, to avoid accidents, with an average speed of 15 miles per hour.

The Guardian - Tech

"The most important thing is that they now go into Libya waters, where the majority of accidents happened in the past".

The Guardian

Alcohol-related illnesses and incidents (including accidents, violence and suicide in which alcohol has factored) are the most common cause of death for both working age men and women there – and have been so for many years.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a curiously exhilarating experience - until we pass the first of several road accidents that we are to witness.

The Guardian - Travel

"We have too many tragic accidents caused by behaviours and conditions that others had seen and walked past.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "accidents", be specific about the type and severity. For instance, differentiate between 'traffic accidents' and 'workplace accidents' to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "accidents" as a catch-all term without providing context. Instead of saying 'there were many accidents', specify what kind of events occurred and their impact.

Linguistic Context

The word "accidents" functions primarily as a plural noun, referring to multiple unexpected events that result in harm or damage. As supported by Ludwig, this term appears across a wide array of contexts, encompassing everything from road incidents to workplace mishaps.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "accidents" is a common and grammatically correct noun used to describe unexpected events causing harm or damage. As confirmed by Ludwig, this word appears most frequently in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific contexts, indicating a broad applicability. While the term is generally neutral in tone, specificity in describing the nature and severity of the accidents is crucial for clear communication. When writing, consider alternatives like "incidents" or "mishaps" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

incidents

A more general term for events that may or may not involve harm or damage.

mishaps

Refers to minor accidents or unlucky incidents, often implying less severe consequences.

mishaps

Refers to minor accidents or unlucky incidents, often implying less severe consequences.

crashes

Similar to collisions, often used in the context of vehicle accidents.

collisions

Specifically refers to instances where objects or vehicles crash into each other.

unfortunate incidents

Emphasizes the negative and regrettable nature of the events.

unforeseen events

Highlights the unexpected nature of accidents, focusing on the lack of anticipation.

calamities

Implies events that are disastrous or catastrophic, carrying a stronger negative connotation.

unintentional harm

Focuses on the lack of intent behind the causing of accidents or harm.

catastrophes

Synonymous with calamities, denoting events of great misfortune or suffering.

FAQs

How can I use "accidents" in a sentence?

You can use "accidents" to refer to unexpected events that cause damage or injury. For example: "The report highlighted the increase in traffic accidents during the holiday season."

What can I say instead of "accidents"?

You can use alternatives like "incidents", "mishaps", or "collisions" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "accidents" or "incidents"?

"Accidents" specifically imply an event that caused harm or damage, while "incidents" is a more general term that may not necessarily involve harm.

What's the difference between "accidents" and "disasters"?

"Accidents" are typically isolated events, while "disasters" refer to large-scale events causing widespread damage and loss.