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"By accident" is an adverb which is often translated as "por accidente", and "on purpose" is an adverb which is often translated as "a propósito". Learn more about the difference between "by accident" and "on purpose" below.
by accident(
bay
ahk
-
sih
-
dihnt
)An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
1. (by mistake)
a. por accidente
I tore my exam by accident. May I please have another?Rompí mi examen por accidente. ¿Me puede dar otro?
b. sin querer
I scratched that car by accident. Should I leave a note?Rayé ese coche sin querer. ¿Debo dejar una nota?
2. (by chance)
a. por casualidad
We found our new favorite radio station by accident.Encontramos nuestra nueva estación de radio favorita por casualidad.
b. de casualidad
Scientists always seem to make their best discoveries by accident.Los científicos siempre parecen hacer sus mejores descubrimientos de casualidad.
on purpose(
an
puhr
-
pihs
)An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
a. a propósito
I didn't break the plate on purpose. It was an accident.No rompí el plato a propósito. Fue un accidente.
