coincidence

Everyday

1. When two things happen at the same time or in a surprising way by chance, without being planned (What a coincidence!). tree →
2. (maths, formal) The fact of two things being in the same place or the same. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and stories: meeting a friend far from home is a coincidence. In maths and science: a pattern can be a coincidence, not proof; you need many tests. Phrases: by coincidence, pure coincidence, it's no coincidence that.

Examples

• What a coincidence — we have the same birthday! tree →
• By coincidence, we were on the same train. tree →
• It was pure coincidence that we wore the same shirt. tree →
• It's no coincidence that he's tired; he stayed up late. tree →
• A pattern in three numbers might be a coincidence. tree →
• Scientists test many times to rule out coincidence. tree →

Note

Spelling: co-in-ci-dence. Adjective: coincidental. Trap: a surprising coincidence is not magic or a sign; with many people and events, coincidences are common (the birthday problem: in a group of 23, two sharing a birthday is more likely than not).

In Jewish tradition

Interpretation: In Sefer Yetzirah, the opposing letters and elements are said to meet in balance. The tradition holds that nothing in creation is mere chance but all is set by God's design. In the primary lessons: In everyday life and stories: meeting a friend far from home is a coincidence. In maths and science: a pattern can be a coincidence, not proof; you need many tests. Phrases: by coincidence, pure coincidence, it's no coincidence that.

Note

Spelling: co-in-ci-dence. Adjective: coincidental. Trap: a surprising coincidence is not magic or a sign; with many people and events, coincidences are common (the birthday problem: in a group of 23, two sharing a birthday is more likely than not).