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.

"I didn't know what was going to happen," he told AFP in an interview in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, where he was repatriated in late March.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

“It’s hard to imagine what will happen if and when we have an extended bear market.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

If all working Americans are going to earn at least enough to cover their cost of living, policymakers will need to make it happen.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Raman said that as mayor, she would ensure that such projects are finished on time — and replace airport leadership if it fails to happen.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 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

happen

Example Sentences

Related Words