Thesaurus results for OCCURRENCE

Q: How is the word 'occurrence' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of occurrence are circumstance , episode , event , and incident . While all these words mean "something that happens or takes place," occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan. // an encounter that was a chance occurrence

Q: When is it sensible to use 'circumstance' instead of 'occurrence'?

The words circumstance and occurrence can be used in similar contexts, but circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background. // couldn't recall the exact circumstances

Q: In what contexts can 'episode' take the place of 'occurrence'?

Although the words episode and occurrence have much in common, episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident. // a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work

Q: When is 'event' a more appropriate choice than 'occurrence'?

In some situations, the words event and occurrence are roughly equivalent. However, event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause. // the events following the assassination

Q: When would 'incident' be a good substitute for 'occurrence'?

The meanings of incident and occurrence largely overlap; however, incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance. // a minor wartime incident

occurrence

noun

ə-ˈkər-ən(t)s

Definition of occurrence next

as in event

something that happens life is full of random occurrences

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word occurrence distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of occurrence are circumstance, episode, event, and incident. While all these words mean "something that happens or takes place," occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan.

an encounter that was a chance occurrence

When is it sensible to use circumstance instead of occurrence?

The words circumstance and occurrence can be used in similar contexts, but circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background.

couldn't recall the exact circumstances

In what contexts can episode take the place of occurrence?

Although the words episode and occurrence have much in common, episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident.

a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work

When is event a more appropriate choice than occurrence?

In some situations, the words event and occurrence are roughly equivalent. However, event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause.

the events following the assassination

When would incident be a good substitute for occurrence?

The meanings of incident and occurrence largely overlap; however, incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance.

a minor wartime incident

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of occurrence Heat waves are a frequent and sadly deadly occurrence. —

Angela Fritz, CNN Money, 12 May 2026 In the long history of UAP observations, perhaps only one has a clear explanation—and indeed, one that revealed itself within moments of its occurrence. —

Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 11 May 2026 Ambulance calls are a regular occurrence at the Center during the summer. —

Michael Perkins, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 May 2026 Valdez’s ejection was the latest in a series of questionable occurrences throughout his career, including a situation last season when Valdez, then with the Houston Astros, crossed up catcher César Salazar, prompting speculation about whether the pitch was thrown with malicious intent. —

Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for occurrence

Recent Examples of Synonyms for occurrence

Noun

Food and drink There is daily breakfast service in Aujourd’hui, as well as the occasional special event such as the beloved Teddy Bear Breakfast during the holidays.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 May 2026
Indeed, the tapping of an individual button is perhaps the least significant event on the planet, shifting nothing apart from the dust beneath it.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 19 May 2026

Definition of event

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occurred (to)

occurrence

occurrences

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“Occurrence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/occurrence. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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Synonyms of occurrence

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