WordGarden.iooccasion
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /əkˈeɪʒən/
US
- /əˈkeɪʒən/
Meanings
Noun
a special or formal event marked for a purpose or celebration
a particular time or instance when something happens
a reason or cause for something
Verb
to cause or bring about something
Beyond the definition
An occasion is a particular time when something happens, often one that feels special or important. Birthdays, weddings, and holidays are common examples. But it does not always have to be happy or formal; it can also mean a certain time or event, as in "On one occasion, everyone stayed indoors during the storm."
The word can also point to a reason for doing something or a suitable moment to act. You might dress up for a special occasion, wait for the right occasion to speak, or say that a mistake gave no occasion for anger. In more formal writing, it often suggests that words or behavior should match the situation.
The word "occasion" usually refers to a particular time or event, often one that stands out in some way. Sometimes it means a celebration or important event, as in "Her graduation was a joyful occasion." In cases like that, the word carries a sense of importance, ceremony, or shared feeling.
It can also be used in a broader way for a certain time when something happened. For example, "On one occasion, we missed the train and had to walk home" does not describe a celebration at all; it simply points to one specific instance. This use is common when telling stories or describing repeated events.
"Occasion" also often suggests that something is suitable for a certain moment or event. If you dress for the occasion, your clothes fit the setting. If someone waits for the right occasion to ask a question, they are waiting for the right moment. In this sense, the word is close to "opportunity" or "proper time," though it still keeps the idea of a specific situation.
The word can also mean a reason or cause, especially in formal English. "You have no occasion to worry" means you have no reason to worry. As a verb, "occasion" means to cause something to happen, as in "The decision occasioned a lot of debate." That verb use is correct but less common in everyday speech.
Whether it points to a celebration, a single moment in a story, a fitting time to act, or a reason for something, "occasion" is about a specific situation and what makes that moment matter.
Examples
- 1
Special event
We usually save that restaurant for a special occasion.
- 2
Event preparation
I bought a new shirt for the occasion.
- 3
Specific instance
On this occasion, we decided to take the train instead of driving.
- 4
Repeated times
I've met her on several occasions, but I don't know her well.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Celebration reason
The award ceremony was an occasion for celebration.
- 6
Frequency phrase
We still see each other on occasion.
- Phraseon occasion
sometimes
- 7
Opportunity
If the occasion arises, I'll ask him about the job.
- Phraseif the occasion arises
if a suitable chance happens
- 8
Challenge
Everyone was nervous before the presentation, but Maya rose to the occasion.
- Phraserise to the occasion
do well in a difficult or important situation
- 9
Formal event
The mayor gave a speech on the occasion of the town's 200th anniversary.
- Patternon the occasion of + event
at the time of an important event
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- routine
- ordinary day
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- special occasion
- on one occasion
- mark the occasion
- rise to the occasion
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- occasionnounverb
Forms
- occasionspluralnounverb
- occasionedpast tenseverbnoun
- occasioning-ing formverbnoun