unintentional

adjective

un·​in·​ten·​tion·​al ˌən-in-ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)nəl 

: not done by intention or design : not intentional

an unintentional effect

causing unintentional harm/offense

unintentionally adverb

an unintentionally offensive remark

Synonyms of unintentional

• accidental

Examples of unintentional in a Sentence

an unintentional encounter with an old classmate at the mall

an unintentional insult that nevertheless was very hurtful

Recent Examples on the Web

While often subtle and unintentional, these patterns contribute to the perception that men's expertise carries greater authority. —Maia Niguel Hoskin, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026

Still, attempting to get high is a primary driver behind the increase in poisoning cases in teens ages 13 to 19, said America’s Poison Centers, as opposed to unintentional medical errors. —Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 12 June 2026

It's played as a moment of jealousy when his father compliments Tony, but some fans aren't so quick to view it as unintentional. —Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 10 June 2026

This proposal is filled with unintentional consequences. —Dwight Earl Williams, Oc Register, 4 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unintentional

• interventional
• nonconventional
• nondimensional
• unconventional
• attentional
• conventional
• dimensional
• extensional
• intensional
• intentional
• multidimensional
• unidimensional