What does unintentionally mean?
Unintentionally means without intention, purpose, or deliberate planning. It is used to describe actions, remarks, errors, and consequences that occur by chance rather than because someone meant for them to happen. The word is common in both everyday conversation and formal writing: a person may unintentionally interrupt someone, disclose private information, cause damage, or make an embarrassing remark. Its implication depends on the context. In some situations it emphasizes that no deliberate harm was intended, while in others it simply identifies the cause of an accident or mistake. Although intentionally and deliberately are direct contrasts, unintentionally should not automatically be treated as an excuse, because a lack of intent does not necessarily remove responsibility for the outcome. It is also broader than words suggesting simple carelessness, such as carelessly, and more explicit than the shorter phrase by accident.
adverbWithout intention or deliberate purpose; accidentally or inadvertently.
- Without intention, purpose, or deliberate planning.
"She unintentionally interrupted the speaker during his announcement."
"The message was unintentionally sent to the entire department."
"His comment unintentionally embarrassed everyone in the room."
Sometimes the most consequential words are the ones we never meant to say.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unintentionally come from?
Unintentionally is formed in modern English from the adjective unintentional, meaning “not intentional,” with the adverbial suffix -ly. The base adjective comes from intention, which in turn derives from Latin intendere, “to stretch toward” or “aim at.” The development from “aiming at” to “having a purpose” and finally to “without purpose” reflects the contrast between intention and its absence.
How unintentionally is actually used
This is a neutral, widely used adverb in formal and informal English. It can describe anything from minor mishaps to significant consequences, but it does not by itself establish legal fault, carelessness, or responsibility.
Easily confused with unintentionally
Unintentionally describes an action done without deliberate purpose, whereas intentionally describes an action done on purpose.