Synonyms of occurrence

occurrence

noun

ə-ˈkər-ən(t)s 

as in event

something that happens

life is full of random occurrences

Synonyms & Similar Words

• event
• incident
• circumstance
• thing
• episode
• happening
• occasion
• accident
• affair
• phenomenon
• time
• experience
• coincidence
• hap
• fluke
• co-occurrence
• emergency
• adventure
• milestone
• landmark
• crisis
• page
• turning point
• freak
• happenstance
• news
• achievement
• juncture
• happenchance
• deed
• feat
• tidings
• milepost
• exploit

Synonym Chooser

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

Recent Examples of occurrence

Here are some of the notable occurrences from the Rangers’ Opening Day game. —Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Mar. 2025

That sale has caused an uproar in China and Hong Kong alike, with Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly furious over the deal’s occurrence. —Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 27 Mar. 2025

And, as of Wednesday, the city’s criminal incident data portal still listed the ballpark as the shooting’s address of occurrence. —Sam Charles, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 2025

Although the issue of police brutality, along with officers adopting the Punisher’s logo, echoes real-life occurrences, the storyline largely serves to force Matt and Fisk back into each other’s orbits. —Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 26 Mar. 2025