circumstance
10 synonyms for circumstance, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A fact or condition connected to an event, which affects how it happens or is understood.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use circumstance
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
under the circumstances
extenuating circumstances
unforeseen circumstances
Etymology
From Old French circonstance, from Latin circumstantia — literally "a standing around", from circum ("around") plus stare ("to stand").
Full origin of circumstance →Frequently asked questions
What does “circumstance” mean?
The word “circumstance” means a fact or condition connected to an event, which affects how it happens or is understood. In plain terms, a detail or condition surrounding a situation that affects what happens or how it should be judged.
How do you pronounce “circumstance”?
“Circumstance” is pronounced SUR-kuhmstns (/ˈsɝ.kəmˌstæns/ in IPA).
How do you use “circumstance” in a sentence?
Here is “circumstance” used in a sentence: “Under different circumstances, she might have accepted the offer.”
What is another word for “circumstance”?
Words with a similar meaning to “circumstance” include position and posture.
What part of speech is “circumstance”?
“Circumstance” is a noun.
Where does the word “circumstance” come from?
The word “circumstance” comes from Latin. From Old French circonstance, from Latin circumstantia — literally "a standing around", from circum ("around") plus stare ("to stand").
Is “circumstance” a common word?
“Circumstance” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "circumstance" and "situation"?
A "circumstance" is a single fact or condition that affects how an event happens or is understood, while a "situation" is the broader combination of circumstances existing at a particular time. Circumstances are the individual pieces; a situation is the overall picture they form.
Should you say "under the circumstances" or "in the circumstances"?
Both are used, though "under the circumstances" is more common, especially in American English, and suggests the circumstances are constraining or influencing an action. "In the circumstances" appears more often in British English and simply refers to the conditions surrounding an event.
What does it mean to say someone is in "reduced circumstances"?
It means their financial condition has worsened, referring to a decline from a more comfortable standard of living. Here "circumstances" refers specifically to someone's material or financial condition.
