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

Examples 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 Washington — All five living U.S. presidents are attending Jimmy Carter's funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, a rare occurrence that marks the first time the leaders have gathered publicly since 2018. Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2025 But the Chilean fires also underscore another ominous dynamic: Grasses, shrubs, and trees that humans have introduced to new ecosystems are increasing wildfire occurrence and frequency. Kylie Mohr, Vox, 8 Jan. 2025 On the show, Serena — their last names were not used — highlighted one common occurrence: covering Nate on typically joint expenses like travel and dining out. Kamaron McNair, CNBC, 8 Jan. 2025 Energy and Commerce Committee The GOP Steering Committee selected 10 new members to the Energy and Commerce panel, including several freshmen members — a rare occurrence. Victoria Knight, Axios, 6 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for occurrence 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for occurrence
Noun
  • The funeral, part of a week of events mourning the ex-president ahead of his burial in tiny Plains, Georgia, was packed with pageantry, intrigue, pomp and ceremony, in notable juxtaposition with Carter’s homespun life.
    Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 9 Jan. 2025
  • California More than 9,000 homes, structures damaged or destroyed in Palisades, Eaton fires, officials say 29 minutes ago Fleming offered a riveting play-by-play of the day’s events.
    Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 9 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • The incident was probably good business for chess, if not exactly for Niemann’s reputation.
    Louisa Thomas, The New Yorker, 5 Jan. 2025
  • The alleged incident took place backstage at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on April 21, 2024, after Minaj's concert had ended, the outlets report.
    Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 5 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Initially cared for by her adopter, Lori moved in with her adopter's mother when life circumstances changed.
    Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 1 Jan. 2025
  • These circumstances felt at once promising and threatening at a time of bewildering yet liberating technological developments.
    David A. Ross, Artforum, 1 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Really, what’s the wildest thing that could happen tonight?
    Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 6 Jan. 2025
  • Since then, he’s been lining up venture-capital money for things such as fantasy chess, and launched a new app for following chess players and tournaments, called Take Take Take.
    Louisa Thomas, The New Yorker, 5 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near occurrence

Cite this Entry

“Occurrence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/occurrence. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on occurrence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!