circumstance

A fact or condition around an event that helps explain what happens.

• The circumstances are unusual.
• Police investigated the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
• Under no circumstances should you open this door.

How to use it: under/in ... circumstances (Under these circumstances, we should wait.)

Similar words: condition, factor

Common phrases: under no circumstance, a particular circumstance, an unusual circumstance

Events outside your control that affect what happens to you.

• Circumstance brought us together.
• He became a victim of circumstance.
• They were separated by circumstance, despite their plans.

Similar words: chance, fate

Common phrases: by circumstance, through circumstance, a victim of circumstance

The amount of money and property someone has, and the way this affects their life.

• Her financial circumstances have improved.
• He grew up in modest circumstances.
• After losing their business, they lived in reduced circumstances.

How to use it: in ... circumstances (They live in comfortable circumstances.)

Similar words: financial situation, means

Common phrases: a financial circumstance, a change of circumstance