On accident vs by accident

[MikeNewYork]

A question came up about this usage on another forum. I would like to hear what my colleagues from different countries have to say about these two phrases.

Thanks.

 

[emsr2d2]

A question came up about this usage on another forum. I would like to hear what my colleagues from different countries have to say about these two phrases.

Thanks.

In BrE, I have never heard "on accident". We use "accidentally" or "by accident".

 

[renard]

We use "by accident" in Canada.

 

[Chicken Sandwich]

Here's an interesting article:

Grammar Girl : On Accident Versus by Accident :: Quick and Dirty Tips ?

 

[MikeNewYork]

Here's an interesting article:

Grammar Girl : On Accident Versus by Accident :: Quick and Dirty Tips ?

Yes, I've already seen that. The first time this came up on the dictionary forum, there was little out there about "on accident". Now there are many web pages dealing with it. It appears to be growing in the under 30 set. I don't think I have ever heard it, but I am way over 30.

 

[Raymott]

I've never heard of "on accident" and I would advise learners on this site to use "by accident" (and not only because I haven't heard of the other weird phrase). If, on accident, you fall into a group that uses "on accident" that's the time to consider it.

 

[Tdol]

Yes, I've already seen that. The first time this came up on the dictionary forum, there was little out there about "on accident". Now there are many web pages dealing with it. It appears to be growing in the under 30 set. I don't think I have ever heard it, but I am way over 30.

I am afraid I am showing my age then as a by-accidenter.

 

[SoothingDave]

I cringe when I hear "on accident."

 

[MikeNewYork]

Thanks to all of you. I am surprised that "on accident" has gained traction. I am with those of you who would teach the other version.

 

[SoothingDave]

Thanks to all of you. I am surprised that "on accident" has gained traction. I am with those of you who would teach the other version.

I think it's people who think that since it is "on purpose," therefore it must be "on accident."

 

[MikeNewYork]

I think it's people who think that since it is "on purpose," therefore it must be "on accident."

That's a good point. Another person suggested that this started as a misunderstanding of "an accident", as in It wasn't my fault. It was "an" accident.

 

[charliedeut]

Maybe it started as a poor/too literal translation from another language.

 

[Tdol]

That's a good point. Another person suggested that this started as a misunderstanding of "an accident", as in It wasn't my fault. It was "an" accident.

Interesting theory- like [strike]would of[/strike].

 

[MikeNewYork]

Interesting theory- like [strike]would of[/strike].

Yes. Good one!