noun
occasion
uh-KAY-zhuhn
noun
1
A particular time when something happens, especially something notable.
"On this occasion, I'll let it slide."
"Their wedding was a joyful occasion for the whole family."
2
A reason, opportunity, or need for something.
"I rarely have occasion to wear a suit."
verb
1
To cause or bring about.
"The delay was occasioned by bad weather."
How to Use Occasion
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA specific time or event, or a reason for doing something.
Common pairings
a special occasion
rise to the occasion
on this occasion
Word Forms
occasioned past tense, occasions plural, occasions singular
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On this _____, I'll let it slide.
Etymology
From Latin occasio, "opportunity, occurrence", from occidere, "to fall down, happen" — from ob- plus cadere ("to fall").