Definition & Meaning of "accidental gap"

What is an "accidental gap"?

An accidental gap is a term used in linguistics to describe a situation where a particular word or form does not exist in a language even though it could logically fit within the rules and patterns of that language. This absence is not due to any systematic restriction but is simply a coincidence. For example, in English, there are words for "dog" and "dog-like," but there is no specific term for "dogish." This gap does not reflect a limitation of the language itself but rather an accidental occurrence, showing how languages can have empty spaces despite having structures that suggest they could be filled. Understanding accidental gaps helps linguists explore the complexities and peculiarities of language.