happen

[hap-uhn] / ˈhæp ən /

VERB

come to pass; occur

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appear arise arrive crop up develop fall go on hit materialize meet pass result take effect take place transpire

STRONG

befall betide bump chance down ensue eventuate follow issue light proceed recur shake smoke spring stumble supervene

WEAK

be found become a fact become known become of come about come after come into being come into existence come off luck present itself stumble upon turn out turn up what goes

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cease disappear fail halt lose stop

STRONG

precede

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He could need help, and that is exactly what Sasaki offers and exactly what should happen.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

“Both sides want to see PEACE, and I believe that will happen, quickly!”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

It will serve as a barometer of what will happen across the rest of the central belt.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

President Donald Trump said he thinks a deal with Iran will happen soon.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

That didn’t happen as often anymore, but he knew she still got sad about her grandpa.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith