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circumstance
/-æns/
It describes the external factors or environmental conditions that shape an event. It carries a sense of "context" or "surroundings," suggesting that an action cannot be fully understood without looking at the specific details surrounding it.
In a legal or formal context, it often implies objectivity—the cold facts of a case. When used in the singular, it focuses on a specific detail; when plural, it refers to the overall situation.
When referring to financial status (usually plural), it is a polite, slightly formal euphemism. Saying someone has "reduced circumstances" is a gentler way of saying they have become poor.
Countable when referring to a specific detail or fact surrounding an event ('a strange circumstance'). Uncountable (and usually plural) when referring to someone's overall financial standing or quality of life ('living in reduced circumstances').
💬Casual Conversation
David's trippin. He wants me to pull an all-nighter for this pitch.
Under what circumstance are you actually agreeing to that?
Meanings
Examples
It was a strange circumstance.
The circumstance is simple.
Every circumstance is different.
I cannot go under this circumstance.
The circumstance changed very quickly.
He explained the whole circumstance.
We must consider the circumstance of the crime.
The magic spell depends on the circumstance.
I missed the flight due to a strange circumstance.
Under no circumstance should you sign the contract.
I apologize for the unfortunate circumstance of the delay.
The treaty was signed under a unique circumstance.
Collocations & Compounds
extenuating circumstances
Factors that make a mistake or crime seem less serious or more understandable.
under no circumstances
Used to emphasize that something must not happen or be done.
mitigating circumstances
Conditions that provide a reason for a reduced penalty or punishment.
financial circumstances
The state of one's monetary resources and wealth.
circumstances surrounding
The specific details and conditions related to a particular event.
Idioms & Sayings
under no circumstances
Used to emphasize that something must not happen or be done
a victim of circumstance
Someone who has suffered because of events beyond their control
circumstances beyond one's control
Situations that a person cannot influence or change