Meaning of occasion In English

• 0 a particular time, especially when something happens or has happened:

  • We met on several occasions to discuss the issue.

  • I've heard him be rude to her on a number of occasions.

  • I seem to remember that on that occasion he was with his wife.

  • Sara's party was quite an occasion - there were over a hundred people there.

  • At the wedding he sang a song specially written for the occasion.

  • I have a suit but I only wear it on special occasions.

  • The coronation of a new king is, of course, a historic occasion.

  • Congratulations on the occasion of your wedding anniversary.

  • The 200th anniversary of Mozart's death was the occasion for hundreds of special films, books and concerts.

  • An occasion may arise when you can use your knowledge of French.

  • The bride took/used the occasion to make a short speech.

  • He has, on occasion, made a small mistake.

• 1 to cause something:

  • Her refusal occasioned a lot of trouble.

  • [ + two objects ] The case occasioned the authorities a lot of worry/The authorities were occasioned a lot of worry by the case.

• 2 a particular time when something happens:

  • Sarah loves dressing up for special occasions.

  • She has lied on several occasions.

  • This meeting provides an occasion (= a suitable time) to discuss the issues facing our school.

• 3 a reason or cause:

  • I’ve never had occasion to worry about my children’s school work.