Happen: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in casual and general situations to describe an event that occurs, often unexpectedly.

• What happened to your car?
• I don't know how it happened.

Used in formal contexts, often in writing or scientific discussions, to indicate the happening of events or phenomena.

• The earthquake occurred at night.
• This problem occurs frequently.

Used to specify the occurrence of planned or scheduled events.

• The meeting will take place at 2 PM.
• When does the festival take place?

Used in formal or literary contexts to describe the revelation of events or information, often surprising or unexpected.

• It transpired that he was the culprit.
• Several important findings just transpired.

Used in informal conversation to describe how a situation or event came into existence, typically over time.

• How did that idea come about?
• The changes came about gradually.

Used to describe something that takes place, often unexpectedly or by chance.

• Accidents can happen at any time
• What will happen next?

Describes something significant or planned that takes place, like a gathering, celebration, or important occurrence.

• The charity event is scheduled for next week
• Graduating from college is a major life event

Describes something that happens or takes place, often a specific or notable instance.

• Lightning is a common occurrence during thunderstorms
• The occurrence of the solar eclipse attracted many spectators

Refers to something that happens, especially something unusual or unpleasant. Can have a negative or serious connotation.

• There was an incident at the park involving a stray dog
• The police are investigating the incident

Often used to refer to a single, specific occurrence within a series, such as on TV shows or in someone's life.

• The latest episode of the show was thrilling
• He had a severe episode of anxiety last night