Event: meaning, definitions and examples

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event

[ɪˈvɛnt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

something that happens

An event is something that happens, especially when it is unusual or important.

Synonyms

happening, incident, occasion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
event	This word is commonly used to describe something planned or significant that happens, such as a public or social gathering. We're hosting a charity event this weekend. The annual graduation event was a great success.
occasion	This word is used to denote a particular time when something happens, especially something special or significant. She dressed up for the special occasion. It was an occasion to remember.
incident	This term is often used to describe something that is unusual or unpleasant and typically unexpected. It can have a negative connotation. The police were called to investigate the incident. There was a minor incident at the office yesterday.
happening	This term refers to something that occurs, often spontaneously or unexpectedly, and can be used in both formal and informal situations. What's happening in the city today? It was an interesting happening that caught everyone's attention.

Examples of usage

The wedding was a joyful event for the whole family.
The concert was the biggest event of the year.
The company organized a special event to celebrate its anniversary.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

a planned public or social occasion

An event is a planned public or social occasion.

Synonyms

celebration, function, gathering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
event	A general term for any planned public or social occasion. The city is hosting an event to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Our company is organizing a community event next week.
function	A formal gathering or official ceremony, often related to work or institutions. He was invited to a function at the embassy. The annual gala is a major function for the nonprofit organization.
gathering	Used to describe a casual and informal meeting of people. They had a family gathering at the park. Our friends arranged a small gathering at my house.
celebration	Used when referring to a joyful occasion or an important date that is being commemorated. We are having a celebration for her graduation. The celebration of our team's victory was incredible.

Examples of usage

The charity event raised thousands of dollars for the cause.
The music festival is a popular annual event in the city.
Attending networking events can help you expand your contacts.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

to take place

If something evented, it happens, especially when it is unusual or important.

Synonyms

happen, occur, transpire.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
event	A planned or specifically occurring event, such as parties, meetings, or concerts. The charity event will take place this Sunday The wedding event was attended by many guests
occur	Often used in formal or scientific contexts to describe incidents or phenomena. Natural disasters occur frequently in this region The eclipse will occur at midnight
happen	Used for general and often unexpected occurrences. Accidents happen when you least expect them Did you hear what happened last night?
transpire	Typically used in a formal or dramatic context to describe how something came to be known or developed. It soon transpired that the rumors were true What transpired during the meeting was quite unexpected

Examples of usage

The unexpected storm evented during the night.
The delay evented due to technical difficulties.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'eventus', meaning 'outcome' or 'result'.
It evolved through Middle English from 'evenet', emphasizing a happening or occurence.
In the 14th century, it started being used more broadly to describe significant happenings.

Cultural Significance

Major global events like the Olympics or World Cup bring countries together through sport.
Cultural festivals showcase tradition and community spirit, varying greatly across different regions.
In storytelling, events are pivotal moments that drive the plot and character development.

Science

In physics, an event can refer to a specific occurrence at a point in space and time, like a particle collision.
In environmental science, events such as natural disasters can have significant ecological impacts.
The study of events in ecosystems helps scientists understand patterns and changes in nature.

Technology

Event-driven programming is a paradigm that uses events to trigger actions in software applications.
In social media, events can be organized online and often invite community participation and engagement.
Organizers can use event management software to plan and track attendance, easing the process for large gatherings.

Psychology

Major life events, like graduating or moving, can have significant emotional impacts and affect mental health.
The way individuals remember events is closely tied to their emotional significance, leading to vivid memories.
Understanding events in a person’s life can help psychologists provide better support and therapy.

Translations

Translations of the word "event" in other languages:

🇵🇹 evento

🇮🇳 घटना

🇩🇪 Ereignis

🇮🇩 acara

🇺🇦 подія

🇵🇱 wydarzenie

🇯🇵 イベント

🇫🇷 événement

🇪🇸 evento

🇹🇷 etkinlik

🇰🇷 이벤트

🇸🇦 حدث

🇨🇿 událost

🇸🇰 udalosť

🇨🇳 事件 (shìjiàn)

🇸🇮 dogodek

🇮🇸 viðburður

🇰🇿 оқиға

🇬🇪 ღონისძიება

🇦🇿 hadisə

🇲🇽 evento

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,021, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

...
1018 standards
1019 appeal
1020 technical
1021 event
1022 animals
1023 getting
1024 cold
...