1. musical symbols (sharps, flats, naturals) that alter the pitch of notes, appearing either in the key signature or within the music
Usage: music theory
2. things that happen by chance or are not essential; incidental occurrences
Usage: formal

Examples

• The pianist carefully observed all the accidentals in the complex piece.
• Make sure to play the sharp accidentals in measure twelve.
• The composer used many accidentals to create a chromatic effect.
• Don’t worry about the accidentals in your budget planning.
• Focus on the main expenses rather than the accidentals.
• The accidentals of travel, like delayed flights, can’t be predicted.