PhrasesHub

Accidents will happen

    Definitions

      • Unforeseen events are bound to occur
        To express the inevitability of accidents or unexpected occurrences, often used as a way to cope with unfortunate situations and remind oneself to not dwell on things outside of one's control

      • Excuse for a mistake
        To justify or downplay a mistake or mishap, usually used humorously or sarcastically

    Examples of Accidents will happen

    • She's a great driver, but accidents will happen.

      This idiom is used to acknowledge that even the most careful and skilled people can encounter unexpected mishaps or unfortunate events. It's a way to accept that mistakes and misfortunes are a natural part of life, and we shouldn't be too surprised or upset when they occur.

    • I've been working on this project for weeks, but accidents will happen.

      This idiom can also be used to express the idea that despite our best efforts, things can still go wrong. It's a way to prepare ourselves mentally for the possibility of setbacks or failures, and to remind ourselves that we shouldn't be too hard on ourselves if things don't turn out exactly as planned.

    • He's been trying to quit smoking for years, but accidents will happen.

      This idiom can also be used to suggest that people may struggle with certain habits or addictions, but ultimately they are responsible for their own actions and must take ownership of their choices. It's a way to acknowledge that relapses or setbacks are possible, but to also emphasize the importance of persistence and determination in achieving long-term goals.

    • She's been working from home for months, but accidents will happen.

      This idiom can also be used to acknowledge that unexpected events or distractions can arise, even in the most controlled or predictable situations. It's a way to encourage people to be prepared for the unexpected, and to remind ourselves that we should always be flexible and adaptable in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

    • They've been married for decades, but accidents will happen.

      This idiom can also be used to suggest that even the strongest and most enduring relationships can encounter challenges or difficulties. It's a way to acknowledge that problems and disagreements are a natural part of any partnership, but to also emphasize the importance of communication, compromise, and forgiveness in maintaining a healthy and happy relationship.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "accidents will happen" is typically used to convey the idea that unfortunate events are bound to occur and that it is pointless to dwell on them. It can also be used as a lighthearted excuse for a mistake or mishap. In both cases, the intention is to accept and move on from unexpected or undesirable situations.

    Origin of "Accidents will happen"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the 18th century, where it was first recorded in a poem by William Cowper titled "The Task." In the poem, Cowper writes, "Mistakes and accidents like these, pardon, and will happen in the best of families." This suggests that the phrase was already in use at the time and was a common saying.

    The idiom gained more popularity in the 19th century, appearing in various literary works and becoming a commonly used phrase in everyday language. Its meaning and usage have remained consistent over time, emphasizing the inevitability of accidents and the need to accept them.

    Overall, the idiom "accidents will happen" has become a well-known and widely used phrase, conveying both a sense of inevitability and a lighthearted way to handle mistakes and unexpected events.