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 Plantains, jambalaya and curry are all common occurrences on the menu. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Sep. 2025 Using September to ramp up for the playoffs is a common occurrence for Muncy in his eight seasons with the Dodgers. Doug Padilla, Oc Register, 9 Sep. 2025 It’s been a while since an NFL game was subjected to a ratings-eroding meteorological disruption, but such occurrences are hardly rare. Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 8 Sep. 2025 In the past five years, Synopsys' stock has exhibited a negative one-day return in 53% of occurrences following an earnings announcement. Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for occurrence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for occurrence
Noun
  • On Wednesday afternoon, Turning Point USA founder and right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck during a speaking event at Utah Valley University.
    Rebecca Jennings, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The latest commitment will allow Startup Junkie to continue the program for three years and expand the team's capacity to serve clients and prospective borrowers with more resources, hands-on support and events.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Sanders’ motion details several incidents in which Rackauckas and investigators maneuvered to keep the defense from receiving evidence that could have impeached Neary’s testimony.
    Tony Saavedra, Oc Register, 17 Sep. 2025
  • Many lawmakers, conservative and liberal alike, mourned him and the incident of political violence.
    Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 17 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
    Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Jones asserted that exigent circumstances warranted the shortening of the 15-day notice window.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • And your decisions affect other things.
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Our main quibbles were with the fans—fan buzz and a lack of more fan filtration are two things to contend with—but experienced PC builders will find workarounds.
    Thomas Soderstrom, PC Magazine, 13 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Occurrence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/occurrence. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on occurrence

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