Incidental
Adjective
Definition: Happening as a minor accompaniment to something else.
Definition: Not essential; secondary or subsidiary.
Synonyms: Secondary, Minor, Peripheral, Subordinate
Antonyms: Essential, Primary, Crucial, Vital
- The music playing in the background was merely incidental to the conversation.
- The damage to the car was only incidental; the main concern was the health of the passengers.
- Think of the prefix "in-" meaning "not," and the word "incidental" refers to something not essential or secondary.
Etymology:
The word "incidental" comes from the Latin word "incidentalis," which means "happening by chance." It is derived from the Latin word "incidere," meaning "to fall upon" or "to happen."
Historical Usage:The term "incidental" has been in use since at least the 17th century, retaining its general meaning of something happening by chance or being non-essential.
Related Idioms:
"Incidental music"
Explanation:Refers to music composed specifically to accompany a play, film, or television program and provide a background atmosphere or enhance the audience's experience without detracting from the main focus.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "incidental" with "accidental."
Explanation:While both words relate to things happening by chance, "incidental" specifically refers to something happening as a minor or secondary aspect, while "accidental" refers to something happening unintentionally or unexpectedly. The distinction is important in understanding their precise meanings.