B1verbformalacademic
US/əˈkɜːr/
UK/əˈkɜː/
to happen, especially without being planned; also, of an idea, to come into your mind
In context
Most accidents occur within a few kilometers of home.
It never occurred to me that she might be lonely.
The error occurred when the system was updated.
Words that go with occur
verb + preposition
- occur toDid it occur to you to call me first?
verb + adverb
- occur naturallyThese chemicals occur naturally in the soil.
noun + noun
- accidents occurAccidents occur more often at night.
- problems occurProblems occur when people don't communicate.
adverb + verb
- frequently occurFloods frequently occur in this area.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The accident was occurred at night.Correct: The accident occurred at night.