English · Word Candidate

circumstance

/ˈsɜːkəmst(ə)ns/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: circumstances · circumstancing · circumstanced

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Something which is related to, or in some way affects, a fact or event.

Noun

Examples

The report should focus on to the current circumstances of the organisation, to help us find a way to grow in the future.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

An event; a fact; a particular incident, occurrence, or condition (status).

Noun

Examples

I have ſeen Two or Three antique Buſts of Alexander in the ſame Air and Poſture, and am apt to think the Sculptor had in his Thoughts the Conqueror's weeping for new Worlds, or ſome other the like Circumſtance of his History.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To place in a particular situation, especially with regard to money or other resources.

Verb

Examples

Frank muttered something. Tidings had in some shape reached his ears that his father was not comfortably circumstanced as regarded money.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “circumstance” mean?

Something which is related to, or in some way affects, a fact or event.

Is “circumstance” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.