Synonyms for

Happens

Verb / ˈhæpʌnz / Another word for happens — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

takes place or occurs

Synonyms & similar words

goon bump passoff fallout find happen bechance dematerialise materialize encounter occur materialise pass befall takeplace chance dematerialize comeabout hap occurs transpires arises befalls chances falls happens materializes proceeds results appears develops

Synonyms by register

Formal

occurs transpires ensues arises

Informal

goes down comes up takes place is up

Literary

befalls chances comes to pass

Antonyms

fails misses lacks ceases stops prevents

Common collocations

  • what happens
  • if it happens
  • happens to be
  • what happens next
  • happens to
  • it happens that
  • when it happens

Word family

noun happening
adjective happy
adverb happily

Usage note

The word 'happens' is very common and can be used in most registers. Be mindful of its general nature; more specific verbs are often preferred in formal writing.

Example sentences

  1. It happens every day.
  2. Sometimes, things happen for a reason.
  3. I wonder what will happen next.
  4. I hope nothing bad happens.
  5. What happened to your toy?

Quotes

  • Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions. - Dalai Lama
  • Don't wait for something big to occur. Start where you are, with what you have, and that will always lead you into something greater. - Mary Morrissey
  • Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans. - John Lennon

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