Occur Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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occur
[əˈkəː ]
Definitions
in natural events
To take place; happen.
Synonyms
happen, take place, transpire.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| occur |
Best used in formal writing or speech to describe when something happens unexpectedly or is discovered.
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| happen |
Suitable for everyday conversation and less formal writing to describe any event or situation coming to be.
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| take place |
Ideal for describing planned or scheduled events, often used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| transpire |
Primarily used in formal or literary contexts to describe events occurring, often with a subtle tone of revealing something hidden or previously unknown.
|
Examples of usage
- The accident occurred at 3 p.m.
- The earthquake occurred without warning.
in a specified place
To be found, especially in a particular place or situation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| occur |
Used when talking about events or incidents that happen, often unexpectedly.
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| exist |
Used to indicate that something has actual being or is real, often in a more abstract or philosophical sense.
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| appear |
Used when something becomes visible or seems to be the case based on evidence or observation.
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| be present |
Used when someone or something is in a particular place or at a specific event or moment in time.
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Examples of usage
- These plants occur in the wild only in North America.
- The error occurs frequently in this type of software.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, events are said to occur based on specific conditions, like how rain occurs when humidity meets certain temperature levels.
- Occurrences in nature, like the blooming of flowers or migration of birds, follow patterns that scientists seek to understand.
- In chemistry, reactions occur in predictable ways when the right elements are mixed together.
Psychology
- Human thoughts and emotions often occur in response to both internal and external stimuli, showcasing how our minds work.
- Unconscious thoughts can occur without our awareness, influencing our behavior in subtle ways.
- Cognitive dissonance occurs when a person experiences mental discomfort due to conflicting beliefs or behaviors.
History
- Major historical events, like revolutions or treaties, often occur due to a combination of social, political, and economic factors.
- The Great Fire of London occurred in 1666, fundamentally changing urban planning in the city.
- Significant medical discoveries, like the discovery of penicillin, occur often by chance during unrelated experiments.
Pop Culture
- Many movies center around events that occur suddenly, often leading to dramatic twists in the storyline.
- Musicians may write songs about moments that occur in life, capturing emotions and experiences shared by listeners.
- Trends in fashion or technology often occur through the influence of social media and celebrity endorsements.
Origin of 'occur'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'occur' comes from the Latin 'occurrere', which means 'to run to meet' or 'to happen'.
- It first appeared in English in the late 14th century, initially referring to events happening suddenly.
- Over time, its meaning has expanded to include anything that takes place or comes to mind.
The word 'occur' originated from the Latin word 'occurrere', which means 'to meet, present itself'. Over time, the meaning has evolved to represent the happening or existence of something. The usage of 'occur' in English dates back to the 15th century, and it has remained a commonly used word in both formal and informal contexts.
See also: occurrence, occurrences.