unintentionally

American  

[uhn-in-ten-shuh-nl-ee] / ˌʌn ɪnˈtɛn ʃə nl i /

adverb

1. not deliberately or on purpose.

   Properly restricting file sharing will help the user avoid unintentionally granting access to unknown parties.

---

Etymology

Origin of unintentionally

unintentional ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Instead, this edition of the world’s most popular sporting event has highlighted, if unintentionally, the current tensions between the host countries at one of the most turbulent moments in their relationship.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 16, 2026

While many individual investors were eager to be a part of SpaceX's listing and snap up stock, many had expressed concerns about the number of investors who will be exposed to the company perhaps unintentionally.

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

Because the big takeaway, ultimately far more significant than any regime change or reshuffling of alliances, is that the president has unintentionally kicked off a global race to renewable energy.

From Salon • May 16, 2026

The research highlights how everyday human activities, including purchasing, cultivating, and transporting mushrooms, can unintentionally introduce invasive species into new environments.

From Science Daily • Apr. 24, 2026

“Parzival unintentionally tipped me off about the tomb’s location, too. I never thought to look for it on Ludus, either, until his name appeared on the Scoreboard.”

From "Ready Player One: A Novel" by Ernest Cline

Related Words

• accidentally
• inadvertently
• involuntarily