What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
betide
Example
What will betide us if we don't finish the project on time? [betide: verb]
Example
Woe betide anyone who crosses her path when she's angry. [betide: verb]
happen
Example
I happened to see my friend at the grocery store yesterday. [happened: past tense]
Example
It just so happens that I have an extra ticket to the concert. [happens: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Happen is more commonly used than betide in everyday language. Happen is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while betide is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between betide and happen?
While happen is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, betide is more formal and less commonly used, making it more appropriate for formal writing or speech.
