Thesaurus results for HAPPENSTANCE

happenstance

noun

Definition of happenstance

as in coincidence

formal + literary something that happens by chance Our meeting was pure happenstance. We met each other by happenstance.

Related Words

Relevance

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 happenstance If Felker’s appearance was by happenstance, Wynonna’s was by design. — Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 15 Aug. 2026 All that while also pivoting because of fan reaction, injuries and other happenstance. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 Today that very same house is known as Loveless Cafe and is more a dining destination than a convenient happenstance for travelers. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2026 Tiley’s landing in the Illini tennis program was largely down to happenstance. — Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for happenstance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for happenstance

Noun

The fact that Putin has grown more belligerent at precisely the same time as Washington is pulling back is not a coincidence.

— Franklin C. Miller, Foreign Affairs, 15 Sep. 2026
But critics of the Kennedy Center's administration said the timing of this report may not be a coincidence.

— Anastasia Tsioulcas, NPR, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of coincidence

Noun

Decisions grounded in clear values and long-term strategy remain resilient even when circumstances evolve.

— Nick Leighton, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026
But the alternative—the freedom to perpetually abandon difficult circumstances—is, in the long run, the more wearying path.

— Meghan O’Gieblyn, New Yorker, 14 Sep. 2026