What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
existed
Example
The dinosaurs existed millions of years ago. [existed: past tense]
Example
The evidence suggests that life existed on Mars at some point. [existed: verb]
occurred
Example
The accident occurred on the highway during rush hour. [occurred: past tense]
Example
It never occurred to me that I could be wrong. [occurred: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Occurred is more commonly used than existed in everyday language. Occurred is a versatile word that can be used to describe any event or situation, while existed is more specific and often used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between existed and occurred?
Existed is more formal than occurred, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
