ocurrir

Definition & meaning

The verb ocurrir in Spanish has two primary meanings depending on the context:

1. To happen or take place: This refers to an event, incident, or situation that occurs or comes to pass. It is often used to describe unplanned or sudden events.
2. To come to mind (reflexive form: ocurrirse): When used reflexively (ocurrírsele a alguien), it means that an idea, thought, or solution suddenly appears in someone's mind. For example, "Se me ocurrió una idea" translates to "An idea occurred to me."

Grammar & Word origin

• Grammar: It is an intransitive verb. When used in the sense of "to come to mind," it is used as a pronominal verb (reflexive construction) and requires an indirect object pronoun (me, te, le, nos, os, les) to indicate who is having the thought.
• Origin: The word comes from the Latin occurrere, which is composed of the prefix ob- (towards/against) and currere (to run). Literally, it meant "to run towards" or "to meet."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• Suceder ocurr↗: To happen or follow in order.
• Acontecer ocurr↗: To occur or take place, often used for more formal or significant events.
• Pasar ocurr↗: A very common and general term for something that happens.
• Venir a la mente ocurr↗: Specifically for the meaning of an idea appearing in thought.

Antonyms:

• Parar ocurr↗: To stop or cease (in the context of an event stopping).
• Omitir ocurr↗: To omit or not happen (in specific contexts where an action is expected but fails to occur).