Meaning
Attributing an unexpected concurrence of events to chance rather than intention.
Cultural Background
In North India, the word 'इत्तेफाक' (ittefaq) is often used interchangeably with 'संयोग' due to the influence of Urdu. While Hindi is not the primary language, the phrase is understood in urban centers like Bangalore or Hyderabad. Coincidences are often seen as 'kismet' (destiny), so clarifying it is 'just a coincidence' is a way to stay humble.
Use 'महज'
Replace 'केवल' with 'महज' to sound more sophisticated.
Don't use for accidents
Never use this for car crashes or injuries.
Meaning
Attributing an unexpected concurrence of events to chance rather than intention.
Use 'महज'
Replace 'केवल' with 'महज' to sound more sophisticated.
Don't use for accidents
Never use this for car crashes or injuries.
Add 'तो'
The 'तो' adds a natural, conversational flow that native speakers love.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
यह तो ______ एक संयोग है।
'केवल' means 'only', which fits the phrase.
Which sentence is more natural?
Choose the best option.
The second option is more idiomatic and natural.
Complete the response.
A: 'Did you plan this?' B: '______'
This is the correct way to deny planning.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You meet a friend in a city far from home.
This phrase explains the surprise of a random meeting.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesयह तो ______ एक संयोग है।
'केवल' means 'only', which fits the phrase.
Choose the best option.
The second option is more idiomatic and natural.
A: 'Did you plan this?' B: '______'
This is the correct way to deny planning.
You meet a friend in a city far from home.
This phrase explains the surprise of a random meeting.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it is usually for neutral or positive coincidences.
It is neutral and works in both formal and informal settings.
Use 'इत्तेफाक से'.
Yes, it is a very common word in daily Hindi.
Yes, if you need to explain a random connection.
Yes, 'संयोगों' (coincidences), but rarely used.
Related Phrases
किस्मत का खेल
similarGame of fate
अचानक
builds onSuddenly
इत्तेफाक से
synonymBy coincidence
