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Definitions

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.

Now, scientists are learning more about why these episodes happen, how to differentiate more-common causes from more-serious issues, and which treatments can prevent or reduce recurrence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

He would first have to become a British citizen, which can only happen after he has lived in the UK for at least five years.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

“Diversification needs to be strengthened, but this won’t happen overnight,” he told reporters on election eve.

From Barron's • Apr. 17, 2026

And after this week, there is a growing possibility it could happen in full daylight with a roll call vote in the Senate.

From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026

Say what I caused to happen on that awful night.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse