Meaning & Definition of word "Circumstance"
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Circumstance
/ˈsɜːrkəmstæns/
noun:
- 1. A fact or condition connected with or relevant to an event or action.
- Example: Under the circumstances, we had no choice but to leave early.
- 2. The conditions or facts affecting a situation.
- Example: The circumstances of her arrival were quite surprising.
- 3. A situation or occurrence that influences an event.
- Example: Circumstances changed drastically after the storm hit the area.
- 4. The overall situation in which a person lives or operates.
- Example: He was raised in difficult circumstances but still managed to succeed.
Etymology
From Middle English 'circumstaunce', from Old French 'circonstance', from Latin 'circumstantia', meaning 'surrounding condition'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
under the circumstances:
In light of the given situation.
in any circumstances:
Regardless of the situation.
circumstances permitting:
If the situation allows.
changing circumstances:
Alterations in the current situation.
Related Words
situation:
A set of conditions; the state of affairs.
event:
An occurrence or happening.
factor:
An element that contributes to a result.
Slang Meanings of circumstance
Meaning: No way around it
Example Sentence: In this circumstance, there’s no way around it; we have to comply.
Meaning: That's life
Example Sentence: It’s just one of those circumstances; that’s life.