What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
happen
Example
I don't know how it happened, but my phone screen cracked. [happened: past tense]
Example
It just so happened that I ran into my old friend at the grocery store. [happened: past tense]
transpire
Example
The details of the meeting have yet to transpire. [transpire: verb]
Example
It wasn't until later that the truth of the situation began to transpire. [transpire: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Happen is much more commonly used than transpire in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between happen and transpire?
Transpire is a more formal word than happen, and is often used in professional or academic contexts.
