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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.

You get where it is going, and why it needs to happen.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

The increase in temperature will not happen quickly, with chilly air expected to cling on for the next few days.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

Defence Minister Guido Crosetto told parliament that a possible mission to the Strait of Hormuz could only happen with prior approval from lawmakers.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

“This does not happen prior to the new appointment landing in the seat … the true test is more likely to come after May if history is any guide,” the Barclays research concluded.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

“I’m just trying to figure out the goal. Why you need to do this at all. What you think will happen if you don’t.”

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse