occasion
B1Formal to Neutral
Definition
Meaning
A particular time, event, or situation, especially one that is special or noteworthy.
A suitable or favorable time for something to happen; a cause or reason. Also used as a verb meaning to cause something.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The noun 'occasion' has a dual nuance: it can refer to a specific event (the wedding was a grand occasion) or to a general instance/time when something occurs (on that occasion, he was late). The verb is more formal.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Verb usage ('to occasion') is rare and equally formal in both varieties.
Connotations
Slightly more formal in general American usage; in UK English, it can sound more natural in phrases like 'on occasion' (meaning occasionally).
Frequency
Comparatively frequent in both, though perhaps slightly more common in UK English in formal contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
on [possessive] occasionon the occasion of [noun phrase][verb] an occasionoccasion for [noun/gerund]occasion to [infinitive]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “rise to the occasion”
- “on occasion”
- “a sense of occasion”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in formal correspondence and reports: 'We will mark the occasion of our merger with a celebration.'
Academic
Used to discuss causes or specific instances: 'The treaty was the occasion for renewed debate.'
Everyday
Common for social events: 'What are you wearing for the occasion?'
Technical
Rare; limited to specific fields like philosophy or history meaning 'cause'.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The remark occasioned considerable offence.
- The leak occasioned a full review of procedures.
American English
- His resignation occasioned widespread surprise.
- The incident occasioned a formal inquiry.
adverb
British English
- No direct adverb form. 'Occasionally' is used.
American English
- No direct adverb form. 'Occasionally' is used.
adjective
British English
- No common adjective form. 'Occasional' is the related frequency adverb.
American English
- No common adjective form. 'Occasional' is the related frequency adverb.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- It was a special occasion.
- On that occasion, we ate cake.
- We only dress formally on rare occasions.
- The wedding was a joyous occasion.
- His speech was perfectly suited to the solemnity of the occasion.
- This provides an excellent occasion for reviewing our strategy.
- The diplomatic incident occasioned a sharp decline in relations.
- He has a remarkable ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a special CAKE for an OCCASION. The word sounds like 'a cake is on' for a celebration.
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME IS AN EVENT (a point in time conceptualized as a contained happening).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation of 'повод' for every instance; 'reason' or 'cause' may be better for abstract causes.
- Do not confuse with 'opportunity' (возможность). 'Occasion' is more about a specific time/event, less about chance.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect preposition: 'in the occasion' (correct: 'on the occasion').
- Overusing the verb form in informal speech.
- Confusing spelling: double 'c', single 's'.
Practice
Quiz
Which phrase means 'sometimes'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It ranges from neutral to formal. In social contexts ('a party is a fun occasion') it is neutral. The verb form and uses like 'on the occasion of' are formal.
'Occasion' refers to a specific time or event. 'Opportunity' refers to a favorable set of circumstances for doing something. An occasion can present an opportunity.
It is a formal verb meaning 'to cause something'. Structure: [Event/action] occasioned [reaction/result]. Example: 'The news occasioned great joy.'
Most commonly 'on': on this occasion, on the occasion of her birthday. 'For' is used when indicating purpose: a dress for the occasion.