happenstance Definition
- 1a chance circumstance
- 2a coincidence
Using happenstance: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "happenstance" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
It was just happenstance that we met at the airport.
Example
The discovery of penicillin was a happenstance.
Example
Their meeting was a happy happenstance.
Example
The two events were linked only by happenstance.
happenstance Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for happenstance
Phrases with happenstance
by chance or coincidence
Example
I found the book I was looking for by happenstance.
something that occurs by chance, without any underlying plan or intention
Example
Their meeting was mere happenstance, with no prior arrangement or planning.
a fortunate or serendipitous occurrence
Example
Their meeting was a happy happenstance, leading to a lifelong friendship.
Origins of happenstance
from 'happen' + 'stance', meaning 'by chance'
Summary: happenstance in Brief
The term 'happenstance' [ˈhap(ə)nˌstans] refers to a chance circumstance or coincidence. It can be used to describe a variety of situations, from unexpected meetings to accidental discoveries, as in 'The discovery of penicillin was a happenstance.' 'Happenstance' is often paired with modifiers like 'happy' or 'mere,' and can be used in phrases like 'by happenstance,' which means 'by chance or coincidence.'
