Circumstance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚠️
circumstance
[ˈsɜːrkəmstəns ]
Definitions
in a difficult situation
A condition, fact, or event that makes a situation difficult or that makes it different from what is normal or expected.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| circumstance |
Used to describe details or conditions surrounding a specific situation, often beyond one's control.
|
| situation |
Describes a set of circumstances in which one finds oneself, often implying a problem or a challenge that needs to be dealt with.
|
| condition |
Refers to the particular state or environment in which something exists or happens, often used in medical or technical contexts.
|
| event |
Used to refer to something that happens, especially something important or unusual.
|
Examples of usage
- The company is struggling financially due to the current economic circumstances.
- She managed to remain calm in spite of the challenging circumstances.
factors affecting an event
A fact or condition connected with or relevant to an event or action.
Synonyms
conditions, factors, variables.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| circumstance |
Appropriate for describing a specific situation or set of conditions affecting someone or something. Often used in formal or serious contexts.
|
| factors |
Used when discussing elements that contribute to a particular outcome or situation. It is often used in analytical, academic, or business contexts.
|
| conditions |
Used to describe the environmental or situational factors that affect an event, task, or person. This word is often used in technical, medical, or scientific contexts.
|
| variables |
Used primarily in scientific, mathematical, or research contexts to describe elements that can change and affect outcomes.
|
Examples of usage
- The circumstances of the crime led police to suspect an inside job.
- Given the circumstances, I think we should postpone the meeting.
surrounding environment
The conditions or surroundings in which someone lives or operates.
Synonyms
conditions, environment, surroundings.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| circumstance |
Used to describe specific situations or events that influence an outcome. Often refers to the details surrounding an event or action.
|
| environment |
Used to describe the physical or social settings in which someone lives or works. Can also refer to the natural world.
|
| conditions |
Used to describe the state or situation in which someone or something exists. Often relates to physical, social, or economic factors.
|
| surroundings |
Used to describe the immediate physical area around someone or something. Refers to what is observed in the vicinity.
|
Examples of usage
- He grew up in humble circumstances, but he worked hard to achieve success.
- She was accustomed to luxury from an early age, thanks to her wealthy circumstances.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal
- In law, circumstances can greatly influence judges' decisions and the outcomes of cases.
- The phrase 'under the circumstances' is often used to explain why someone acted a certain way.
- Circumstantial evidence refers to clues that suggest a conclusion without proving it directly.
Philosophy
- Philosophers argue about how much our circumstances shape our actions and beliefs.
- The concept of 'determined circumstances' suggests that our environment can limit our choices.
- Some thinkers believe understanding our circumstances is key to personal freedom and decision-making.
Social Sciences
- Circumstances such as socioeconomic status can impact a person's opportunities and outcomes in life.
- The idea of 'situatedness' in sociology highlights how context shapes people's experiences.
- Different cultures interpret the same circumstances uniquely, affecting social interactions.
Literature
- Writers often use characters' circumstances to drive the story, creating tension or conflict.
- In Shakespeare's works, the context often changes characters' motivations and actions.
- Classic novels frequently explore how different circumstances impact individuals’ lives and relationships.
Origin of 'circumstance'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'circumstantia', meaning 'standing around'.
- It evolved through Old French before finding its way into English in the late 14th century.
- Earlier forms in English included 'circumstancial', referring to things that happen around an event.
The word 'circumstance' originates from the Latin word 'circumstantia', meaning 'surrounding condition'. It entered the English language in the 13th century with the sense 'conditions surrounding and accompanying an event'. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings related to situations, events, and surroundings.