occasion
Definitions
A particular time when something happens.
（某事发生的）时候，场合。
A special or notable event.
特殊的活动，盛事。
(formal) To cause or bring about something.
（正式）引起，导致。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedoc- (a form of ob-, 'toward, in front of') + cas (the cadere stem, 'fall') + -ion = 'a falling toward you.' When circumstances fall in front of you at the right moment, you have an occasion — a particular time, a fitting moment. The formal verb 'to occasion' keeps the causal edge: to make something fall out, i.e. to bring it about.
Root cad still carries 18 more wordsWhy It Means This
Occasion is built on the same 'falling-together of circumstances' as coincide, but seen from the angle of timing. Latin occasio meant a fit moment, an opportunity — the instant when events fall into place in front of you. English keeps that 'right moment' core in 'on this occasion' and 'rise to the occasion,' while 'a special occasion' leans on the 'notable event' sense.
Common Collocations
- 1.special occasion特殊场合
- 2.on this occasion这一次
- 3.rise to the occasion不负所望、临危不乱
- 4.on occasion偶尔
Example Sentences
- 1.
On this occasion, I'm willing to make an exception.
- 2.
A wedding is a joyful occasion for the whole family.
- 3.
The new policy occasioned a great deal of debate.