as in finds
to come upon unexpectedly or by chance
happened on the filming of a movie
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for happens (on or upon)
Verb
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The United States finds itself in a precarious position, one that demands urgent attention from every citizen.—
Les Rubin,
Boston Herald,
25 Feb. 2026 -
Namken finds a gap in centerfield for a single, bringing up Cotton, who flies out to deep center.—
Caleb Yum,
Austin American Statesman,
24 Feb. 2026
Verb
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There will be five roster spots up for grabs, with one likely secured by whomever Dallas selects with its lottery pick, but there’s room for Bagley, especially as an emergency center option in case Dallas encounters more injury misfortune.—
Mike Curtis,
Dallas Morning News,
25 Feb. 2026
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Anyone who encounters a sick, injured or dead marine mammal is asked to call the NOAA Fisheries West Coast Region stranding hotline at (866) 767-6114.—
Carlos E. Castañeda,
CBS News,
25 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Happens (on or upon).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/happens%20%28on%20or%20upon%29. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.
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