phenomenon
fuh-NOM-ih-nuhn
Phenomenon (noun) means an observable event, fact, or occurrence, especially one that is studied or explained scientifically. Example: “Rainbows are a natural phenomenon caused by sunlight passing through water droplets.”
noun
1
An observable event, fact, or occurrence, especially one that is studied or explained scientifically.
"Rainbows are a natural phenomenon caused by sunlight passing through water droplets."
"Climate change is a phenomenon backed by overwhelming scientific evidence."
"Sleepwalking is a fairly common phenomenon in young children."
2
A person or thing that is remarkable or extraordinary.
"The little shop became a local phenomenon, with queues stretching along the street every morning."
"Critics called the young chess player a true phenomenon."
"The young violinist was hailed as a musical phenomenon."
How to use phenomenon
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that happens or exists and can be observed, or a truly remarkable person or thing.
Common mistake
The plural is "phenomena," not "phenomenons." Also easy to misspell — remember it has an "-enon" ending.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
natural phenomenon
social phenomenon
a rare phenomenon
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Word forms
- Plural
- phenomena, phenomenons
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Rainbows are a natural _____ caused by sunlight passing through water droplets.
Etymology
From Late Latin phaenomenon, borrowed from Greek phainomenon, "a thing that appears," from phainein, "to show."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
noumenon
thing-in-itself
Related words
Rhymes for phenomenon
See all rhymes for phenomenon →Frequently asked questions
What does “phenomenon” mean?
The word “phenomenon” means an observable event, fact, or occurrence, especially one that is studied or explained scientifically. In plain terms, something that happens or exists and can be observed, or a truly remarkable person or thing.
How do you pronounce “phenomenon”?
“Phenomenon” is pronounced fuh-NOM-ih-nuhn (/fəˈnɑ.məˌnɑn/ in IPA).
How do you use “phenomenon” in a sentence?
Here is “phenomenon” used in a sentence: “Climate change is a phenomenon backed by overwhelming scientific evidence.”
What is the opposite of “phenomenon”?
The opposite of “phenomenon” — its antonyms — are noumenon and thing-in-itself.
What part of speech is “phenomenon”?
“Phenomenon” is a noun.
Where does the word “phenomenon” come from?
The word “phenomenon” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin phaenomenon, borrowed from Greek phainomenon, "a thing that appears," from phainein, "to show.".
Is “phenomenon” a common word?
“Phenomenon” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “phenomenon” have?
“Phenomenon” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an observable event, fact, or occurrence, especially one that is studied or explained scientifically.
What is the plural of "phenomenon"?
The plural of "phenomenon" is "phenomena," following its Greek origin. It is a common mistake to use "phenomena" as a singular; you should say "this phenomenon" but "these phenomena."
What is the difference between "phenomenon" and "phenomena"?
"Phenomenon" is singular and "phenomena" is plural. Referring to one event, use "phenomenon"; for two or more, use "phenomena," and avoid saying "a phenomena."
What is the difference between a "phenomenon" and an "event"?
An "event" is simply something that happens, while a "phenomenon" is an observable occurrence or fact, especially one notable enough to be studied or explained scientifically. "Phenomenon" often carries a sense of being remarkable or requiring explanation.
Can "phenomenon" describe a person?
Yes. Besides meaning an observable occurrence, "phenomenon" can describe a person or thing that is remarkable or extraordinary, as in "the young player is a phenomenon." In this sense it highlights exceptional talent or quality.
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