Definition of Happen
The word happen is a verb that refers to the occurrence of an event, incident, or situation, often unexpectedly. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and formal contexts alike.
Synonyms for Happen
Strongest Matches (Direct Synonyms)
- Occur
- Take place
- Transpire
- Come about
- Arise
- Befall
- Come to pass
Strong Matches
- Materialize
- Proceed
- Emerge
- Unfold
- Develop
- Ensue
- Result
Weak Matches
- Appear
- Show up
- Break out
- Crop up
- Turn up
- Pop up
- Surface
Example Sentences Using Happen and Its Synonyms
- A major accident happened on the highway last night.
- The event will take place at 7 PM sharp.
- A misunderstanding transpired during the meeting.
- How did this situation come about?
- A significant change is about to unfold in the company.
- The rumors started to surface after the announcement.
- A miracle seemed to materialize at the last moment.
Contextual Usage of Happen
The word “happen” is versatile and can be used in various contexts:
- General Usage: “What happened to your car?”
- Formal Usage: “An unexpected delay occurred due to technical difficulties.”
- Casual Conversation: “I happened to meet an old friend at the mall.”
- Philosophical Usage: “Everything happens for a reason.”
Related Words
- Happening (noun): Referring to an event or occurrence.
- Happenstance (noun): A chance occurrence.
- Happily (adverb): In a fortunate or contented manner.
- Unhappened (adjective): Something that did not take place.
Additional Relevant Information
- “Happen” is commonly used in idioms like:
- Make it happen – To ensure something takes place.
- Happen upon – To find or discover something unexpectedly.
- Accidents happen – A phrase used to acknowledge that mistakes occur naturally.
- The past tense of “happen” remains “happened,” and the gerund form is “happening.”
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is intended for educational and reference purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, language usage may vary based on context and dialect. Always consult a language expert for specific grammatical or linguistic concerns.
