01 n. A falling out, happening, or coming to pass; hence, that which falls out or happens; occurrence; incident; event.
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1.
A falling out, happening, or coming to pass; hence, that which falls out or happens; occurrence; incident; event.“The unlooked-for incidents of family history, and its hidden excitements, and its arduous occasions.” — I. Taylor.
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2.
A favorable opportunity; a convenient or timely chance; convenience.“Sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me.” — Rom. vii. 11.“I'll take the occasion which he gives to bring Him to his death.” — Waller.
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3.
An occurrence or condition of affairs which brings with it some unlooked-for event; that which incidentally brings to pass an event, without being its efficient cause or sufficient reason; accidental or incidental cause.“Her beauty was the occasion of the war.” — Dryden.
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4.
Need; exigency; requirement; necessity; as, I have no occasion for firearms.“After we have served ourselves and our own occasions.” — Jer. Taylor.“When my occasions took me into France.” — Burke.
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5.
A reason or excuse; a motive; a persuasion.“Whose manner was, all passengers to stay, And entertain with her occasions sly.” — Spenser.
Phrases & compounds
On occasion —
in case of need; in necessity; as convenience requires.
Syn.
Need; incident; use. See Opportunity.