English · Common Verbs

happens

/ˈhæpənz/

[/ˈhæpənz/]

third-person singular of happen

Beginnerverb

Definition

Third-person singular present of 'happen': used when something takes place or occurs.

Example

It happens every year that the first snow surprises everyone, even though we always expect it.

It happens every year that the first snow surprises everyone, even though we always expect it.

Etymology

From Middle English 'happenen', from 'hap' (chance, luck), of Norse origin.

How & Where It’s Used

Used with singular subjects, often with 'it', to describe events occurring.

Watch “third-person singular of happen” pronunciation on YouTube
verbpresent-tense

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