Circumstance: meaning, definitions and examples

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circumstance

[ˈsɜːrkəmstəns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

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

condition, event, situation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
circumstance	Used to describe details or conditions surrounding a specific situation, often beyond one's control. Under these difficult circumstances, it was hard to stay calm
situation	Describes a set of circumstances in which one finds oneself, often implying a problem or a challenge that needs to be dealt with. She found herself in a difficult situation when she lost her job
condition	Refers to the particular state or environment in which something exists or happens, often used in medical or technical contexts. The patient's condition is improving
event	Used to refer to something that happens, especially something important or unusual. The concert was the most exciting event of the year

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.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

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. Under no circumstances should you enter the room. He found himself in an unusual circumstance.
factors	Used when discussing elements that contribute to a particular outcome or situation. It is often used in analytical, academic, or business contexts. Several factors led to the success of the project. The risk factors for the disease include age and lifestyle.
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. Working conditions in the factory have improved. The weather conditions were harsh during the climb.
variables	Used primarily in scientific, mathematical, or research contexts to describe elements that can change and affect outcomes. There are too many variables to predict the result accurately. Researchers controlled the variables to ensure a fair test.

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.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

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. Given the current circumstances, we will need to postpone the meeting. She handled the circumstances with great resilience.
environment	Used to describe the physical or social settings in which someone lives or works. Can also refer to the natural world. Children need a supportive environment to learn effectively. Pollution is having a detrimental effect on our environment.
conditions	Used to describe the state or situation in which someone or something exists. Often relates to physical, social, or economic factors. The working conditions in that factory are terrible. We can't hold the picnic unless the weather conditions improve.
surroundings	Used to describe the immediate physical area around someone or something. Refers to what is observed in the vicinity. He woke up in unfamiliar surroundings and felt disoriented. The park's beautiful surroundings make it a popular spot for tourists.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "circumstance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 circunstância

🇮🇳 परिस्थिति

🇩🇪 Umstand

🇮🇩 keadaan

🇺🇦 обставина

🇵🇱 okoliczność

🇯🇵 状況 (じょうきょう)

🇫🇷 circonstance

🇪🇸 circunstancia

🇹🇷 durum

🇰🇷 상황 (상태)

🇸🇦 ظرف

🇨🇿 okolnost

🇸🇰 okolnosť

🇨🇳 情况 (qíngkuàng)

🇸🇮 okoliščina

🇮🇸 aðstæður

🇰🇿 жағдай

🇬🇪 გარემოება

🇦🇿 şərait

🇲🇽 circunstancia

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,413, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4410 innovation
4411 optimal
4412 dairy
4413 circumstance
4414 median
4415 seated
4416 landed
...