student asking question

What's the nuance of "happens to"? How's it different from "if she touches you"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"If she happens to" has a similar meaning to "if she by chance" or "if she ends up." Thus, we can understand Jessica as meaning that under the circumstances that the other woman "happens to" (by chance) touch him, he needs to leave immediately and report to his wife. Ex: If you happen to see eggs at the grocery store, please get a carton. Ex: Say hello to your mother for me if you happen to see her.

Popular Q&As

04/18

Complete the expression with a quiz!