C1noun2K

Occurrence

UK /["/əˈkʌrəns/"]/US /["/əˈkɜːrəns/"]/

Definition

something that happens or exists

In simple words: The way something happens or appears.

Examples

  • a **common/everyday/frequent/regular occurrence**
  • Vandalism used to be a **rare occurrence** here.
  • The program counts the number of occurrences of any word within the text.
  • These mild fits are quite a common occurrence in babies.
  • Increased life expectancy means that it is now a rare occurrence for children to be orphaned.
  • Landslips and earthquakes are not everyday occurrences in this country.
  • the recent occurrence of skin cancer in younger patients
  • The document addresses the occurrence of arsenic in drinking water.
  • the low occurrence of heart disease in this particular group

Usage notes

Often used in both spoken and written contexts. Common in scientific, academic, or formal discussions. Avoid in casual conversation where simpler words may suffice.

Grammar pattern

occurrence + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'occur' + 'dance' – imagine a dance happening at an event.

Collocations

  • common
  • everyday
  • widespread
  • prevent
  • reduce
  • increase
  • occurrence in
  • occurrence of
  • a common occurrence
  • a regular occurrence
  • a daily occurrence
  • common
  • everyday
  • widespread
  • prevent
  • reduce
  • increase
  • occurrence in
  • occurrence of
  • a common occurrence
  • a regular occurrence
  • a daily occurrence

Synonyms

  • event
  • happening
  • incident
  • manifestation
  • appearance

Antonyms

  • absence
  • nonexistence

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'occurring' as a noun.
  • Omitting 'of' when saying 'the occurrence you mentioned'.
  • Using 'occurrence' without context (it needs to relate to something).