Accidents will happen Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Unexpected Events The phrase suggests that no matter how careful you are, some things can't be avoided. Jack fell while skating; accidents will happen. Pro Tip 2/3Consolation It's often used to comfort someone when something has gone wrong unintentionally. You didn't mean to spill the juice—accidents will happen. Pro Tip 3/3Not Blameful Saying 'accidents will happen' removes blame from a person who made a mistake. He apologized for breaking my cup, and I said accidents will happen.