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Serendipity - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Serendipity is the occurrence of pleasant or valuable discoveries by chance, often when not actively searching for them. It describes happy accidents or unexpected good fortune.

serendipity

/ˌsɛrənˈdɪpəti/ /ˌsɛrənˈdɪpɪti/

Definition:

The occurrence of fortunate discoveries by chance or accident.

Synonyms:

fluke, luck, fortuity, happenstance

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

misfortune, calamity, mishap

Common Collocations:

happy accident, lucky find, chance discovery, unexpected joy

Derivatives:

serendipitous, serendipitously

Usage Tips:

Use "serendipity" to describe pleasant surprises or unplanned but beneficial events.

Common Phrases:

stroke of serendipity, pure serendipity, serendipity at work

Etymology:

Coined from the Persian fairy tale "The Three Princes of Serendip," known for making accidental discoveries.

Examples:

  • 1. Finding the old photo was pure serendipity during our move.
  • 2. Their meeting was a beautiful example of serendipity in action.
  • 3. She attributed her success to hard work and a bit of serendipity.
  • 4. The scientist’s breakthrough came through sheer serendipity in the lab.

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