Incidental

Incidental describes something that happens as a minor consequence of something else. It is not essential or planned; it's secondary, casual, and often unexpected. It usually applies to events, expenses, or details that are subordinate to or less important than the primary thing being considered. incidental elements can add depth or realism, but aren't crucial to the core narrative, process, or outcome. The implication is often that the incidental aspect is a side effect or a detail not central to the overall purpose, and might even be negligible or easily overlooked. Its presence is a result of a separate, main action that is not as important.

Incidental meaning with examples

• During the construction of the new stadium, there were significant environmental impact assessments, but some minor noise pollution was deemed an incidental effect. While unwanted, the construction project's environmental effects were less significant. The city council considered the environmental effects with no plans to stop the project.
• The project's main goal was to increase sales, and the resulting increase in marketing expenses was an incidental cost. The cost increase was not part of the original budget. It was not a cost that would have caused the project to fail. As a consequence, the budget was amended.
• The detective gathered crucial evidence about the murder. While the suspect's unusual eating habits were observed, they were considered incidental information to the central case. The detective knew the eating habits were not a major aspect of his investigation.
• During the historical reenactment, the costumes, the language, and the period-appropriate music were essential to the overall experience. The presence of some modern cars in the background, however, was an incidental detail that diminished the event's immersion. Though not essential, the modern cars removed from the immersion of the reenactment.