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

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 Mass strandings from toxic algae blooms are becoming almost yearly occurrences. Erika I. Ritchie, Orange County Register, 20 Mar. 2025 If there was no recession, the success rate rose to 93% of the occurrences. Bill Stone, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025 What to know about viewing the rare occurrence How long will totality last? Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY, 13 Mar. 2025 Viruses in wastewater: occurrence, abundance and detection methods PubMed. Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for occurrence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for occurrence
Noun
  • Tesla electric vehicles have become a popular target since billionaire CEO Elon Musk gave what some considered to be a Nazi salute during an inaugural event for President Donald Trump last November.
    Roni Jacobson, New York Daily News, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Such violent celestial events may have left a clue in ancient rocks in the form of a rare element.
    Jackie Wattles, CNN, 22 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Morgan Wallen sentenced: The country star pleaded guilty in Nashville chair-throwing incident After only giving Madison a hug, the singer walked into the audience and past the camera, while the rest of the cast remained on stage for another 90 seconds.
    Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 30 Mar. 2025
  • Bickerstaff, who is in his first year coaching Detroit, added the team is ‘frustrated after the incident and the loss.
    Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 30 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The sheriff’s office noted that the circumstances surrounding O’Malley’s death are still under investigation.
    Sam Gillette, People.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • His lawyers noted there are many circumstances which might make a person ineligible for bond, such as coming in at a port of entry and having a visa questioned.
    Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Few things can complicate the otherwise straightforward matter of death quite like family and the possibility of inheritance.
    Ashley Case, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
  • Jake Paul has nothing but good things to say about his Disney days.
    Nicholas Rice, People.com, 31 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Occurrence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/occurrence. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on occurrence

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