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as in possibility
something that might happen in the event of rain, graduation ceremonies will be held indoors

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word event distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of event are circumstance, episode, incident, and occurrence. While all these words mean "something that happens or takes place," event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause.

the events following the assassination

When can circumstance be used instead of event?

The words circumstance and event are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background.

couldn't recall the exact circumstances

When would episode be a good substitute for event?

In some situations, the words episode and event are roughly equivalent. However, episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident.

a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work

When is incident a more appropriate choice than event?

While in some cases nearly identical to event, incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance.

a minor wartime incident

When might occurrence be a better fit than event?

Although the words occurrence and event have much in common, occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan.

an encounter that was a chance occurrence

Examples of event in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The events raised doubts over whether USDT was truly backed 1:1 by an equal amount of dollars and other assets in Tether’s reserves. Ryan Browne, CNBC, 23 Oct. 2024 The stadium’s Wynn Club, which offers luxurious, high-end service near the end zone, turns into a nightclub after games and helped start a trend of that kind of premium seating at sporting events. Jeff Fedotin, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024 The Harris campaign has been tapping celebrities for campaign appearances, with Bruce Springsteen scheduled to perform at an Atlanta rally Thursday and at a Philadelphia event Monday. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2024 Trump, meanwhile, is set to hold multiple events in Georgia on Wednesday, including a town hall focused on faith in Zebulon, Georgia, and a rally in Duluth, Georgia. Marina Pitofsky, USA TODAY, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for event 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'event.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near event

Cite this Entry

“Event.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/event. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on event

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