B1verb1K

Occur

UK /["/əˈkɜː(r)/","/əˈkɜːz/","/əˈkɜːd/","/əˈkɜːrɪŋ/"]/US /["/əˈkɜːr/","/əˈkɜːrz/","/əˈkɜːrd/","/əˈkɜːrɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to happen

In simple words: To happen or take place.

Examples

The accident occurred late last night.
If a problem occurs, we will need to address it quickly.
Events like these often occur without warning.
It occurred to me that I had forgotten my keys.
Rare species of birds occur in this region.

Usage notes

Commonly used in formal and neutral contexts, such as scientific writing or news reports. Less common in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

occur + object (in some contexts, can be standalone)

Memory hint

Sounds like 'O-cur!', imagine someone saying 'Oh, it occurred to me!'

Collocations

commonly
frequently
often
be likely to
tend to
be unlikely to
among
in
commonly
frequently
often
be likely to
tend to
be unlikely to
among
in

Synonyms

happen
take place
ensue
arise
come about

Antonyms

stop
cease
prevent

Common mistakes

Confused with 'happen', using them interchangeably in all contexts.
Misusing the tense, saying 'occured' instead of 'occurred'.
Using 'occur' without an object when it may not be clear what is happening.