circumstance

noun

UK /ˈsɜː(r)kəmstəns/

Word Forms

singular	circumstance
plural	circumstances

1
countable usually plurala fact or condition that affects a situation
The circumstances surrounding the child’s death are being investigated.
The circumstances of this case are unusual.
under/in...circumstances:
Cancellation under certain circumstances is covered by your travel insurance policy.
Under different circumstances she might have been able to appreciate the irony of it.
In exceptional circumstances students may take examinations at Head Office.
not under/in any circumstances (=used for emphasizing that something cannot be allowed to happen):
I would never in any circumstances dream of comparing her with you.
Under no circumstances will we agree to splitting up the company.
under/considering/given the circumstances (=because the situation is difficult or unusual):
It’s amazing that they did so well under the circumstances.
Synonyms and related words
General words for situations and circumstances
situation
circumstance
conditions
Collocates
Adjectives frequently used with circumstance
▪ certain, exceptional, normal, particular, special, unforeseen
2
countable usually pluralyour circumstances are the conditions in which you live, especially how much money you have
It is very important to make a will, whatever your circumstances.
family circumstances:
problems caused by unemployment, divorce, or some unusual family circumstances
a change in circumstances:
You are obliged by law to notify the agency of any change in circumstances.
Synonyms and related words
General words for situations and circumstances
situation
circumstance
conditions
3
uncountable formalevents and situations that cannot be controlled
a victim of circumstance:
Joanne has been more a victim of circumstance than anything else.
Synonyms and related words
General words for situations and circumstances
situation
circumstance
conditions

phrases

due to unforeseen circumstances

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circumstance

circumstance