of its own accord

Are you using the idiom of its own accord but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the of its own accord idiom and the situations in which it is used.

Meaning of "of its own accord"

Meaning

The idiom “of its own accord” is used to express an independent action that happened without prompting or interference. It implies that something took place on its own, with no external influence or assistance. In other words, it describes something that happened of its own free will or volition.

Etymology

The phrase “of its own accord” originated in the early 17th century and first appeared in print in 1609. It is derived from the Old French phrase “de sa propre accord,” which literally translates to “of its own agreement.”

Usage

The phrase “of its own accord” is frequently used to describe something that happened on its own, without any external influence or assistance. It can also be used to emphasize that something took place without the need for any encouragement. For example, a teacher might say “the students organized the project of their own accord” to emphasize the students' independence and initiative.

The phrase “of its own accord” is also often used to describe a situation recently available without any prior planning. For example, a person might say “the opportunity presented itself of its own accord” to emphasize that the opportunity arose without any prior knowledge or expectation.

Finally, the phrase “of its own accord” is sometimes used to describe a situation in which something happened beyond someone’s control or comprehension. For example, a person might say “the door opened of its own accord” to suggest the door opened on its own, without any external influence or force.

Example Sentences

• The orchestra began to play of its own accord as the bride walked down the aisle.
• The idea for the new project presented itself of its own accord.
• The door opened of its own accord, and we all stumbled into the room.
• The students organized the project of their own accord, without any encouragement from their teacher.

Idioms have a common language

"The early bird catches the worm" is an English idiom that means that those who wake up early and start their day early are more likely to succeed. A similar idiom in Spanish is "El que madruga, Dios le ayuda," which translates to "God helps those who rise early." This idiom emphasizes the importance of starting the day early in order to achieve success.