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as in possibility
something that might happen in the event of rain, graduation ceremonies will be held indoors

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word event distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of event are circumstance, episode, incident, and occurrence. While all these words mean "something that happens or takes place," event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause.

the events following the assassination

When can circumstance be used instead of event?

The words circumstance and event are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background.

couldn't recall the exact circumstances

When would episode be a good substitute for event?

In some situations, the words episode and event are roughly equivalent. However, episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident.

a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work

When is incident a more appropriate choice than event?

While in some cases nearly identical to event, incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance.

a minor wartime incident

When might occurrence be a better fit than event?

Although the words occurrence and event have much in common, occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan.

an encounter that was a chance occurrence

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 event The reunion will take place on a soundstage where the Barone family’s living room was recreated for the event. Michael Schneider, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025 Among those attending the event was Arnold Schwarzenegger, the actor and former Governor of California, who is supporting papal efforts on climate. Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 1 Oct. 2025 The event is being presented by the entertainment company Nice Crowd in partnership with Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia. Gail Mitchell, Billboard, 1 Oct. 2025 CEOs and global leaders will gather for a dynamic, invitation-only event shaping the future of business. Jamie Tarabay, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for event
Recent Examples of Synonyms for event
Noun
  • Everyone was safe after the incident, according to a statement released by the organizers.
    Rajeev Tyagi, ABC News, 1 Oct. 2025
  • What To Know Schleswig-Holstein's interior minster, Sabine Sütterlin-Waack, confirmed that drones were seen flying above the coastal state just south of Denmark overnight into Friday, September 26, and that the incident is under investigation for potential sabotage or espionage.
    Robert Birsel, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Since September 2024, a new federal law requires mammogram reports to state whether breast tissue is dense, and to mention the possibility of additional imaging.
    Dr. Megha Gupta, ABC News, 1 Oct. 2025
  • This decrease in firepower, though, does open the possibility for some historically significant winners.
    Alan Light, HollywoodReporter, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The story of this tournament had been the clashes between fans and Team Europe’s stars, with McIlroy at the center of it.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 28 Sep. 2025
  • After the final match of the day concluded on the Bethpage Black golf course, the action headed over to the Frick Collection in Manhattan, where the luxury brand hosted an elegant gala dinner in honor of the tournament.
    Kristen Tauer, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Despite the risks, Democratic strategists like James Carville believe the party is better positioned politically, noting that Republicans control both the House and the Senate, as well as the White House.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Public opinion has historically played a decisive role in shutdown fights, with voters often blaming the party seen as most intransigent.
    Nik Popli, Time, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • What’s the most rewarding thing for you about being a journalist?
    Nicole Young, Nashville Tennessean, 5 Oct. 2025
  • If things are open deep, Sayin can take shots.
    Cameron Teague Robinson, New York Times, 5 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Yes, bundling insurance can substantially lower your insurance premiums, in some cases up to 30% or more.
    Liz Knueven, CNBC, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Chemical reactions involving the hematite can turn the rock from red to white and produce iron rich minerals, in this case an iron phosphate called vivianite and an iron sulfide called greigite.
    Keith Cooper, Space.com, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • In-competition features showcase emerging filmmakers from around the world, there to debut feature, documentary and short films.
    Andrew McGowan, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Since premiering in 2005, Olympic athletes, TV stars, internet personalities and singers have stepped into the ballroom to participate in the ABC reality dance competition show.
    Jordana Comiter, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Their collaboration captured the spirit of the Biennale, where memory and healing mingled with celebration.
    Dada Jovanovic, ABC News, 28 Sep. 2025
  • Team it with ballet flats or sneakers for a casual day of apple-picking or tailgating this fall, or dress it up with tights and boots for holiday celebrations and other special occasions.
    Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 28 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Event.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/event. Accessed 5 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on event

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