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

This type of detention, rather than being an exceptional occurrence, has become an instrument to be deployed as and when needed. —Amer Matar, The Dial, 26 May 2026

Attacks on Russian oil assets that play a key part in funding the invasion have become almost daily occurrences. —ABC News, 23 May 2026

The incident, which museum officials say has since been cleared up, drew national and then international attention, the second such occurrence in as many months. —Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2026

The current economically disastrous situation, where power cuts are a daily occurrence and the necessities of life are running out, is plainly not sustainable. —Niall Stanage, The Hill, 20 May 2026