phenomenon
an observable fact or event
In more detail
1. (noun) a fact or event that is observed or noticed, especially something unusual or interesting
2. (noun) a remarkable or impressive person or thing
Examples
- The aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon that occurs in polar regions.
- She is a phenomenon in the world of professional tennis.
How to use phenomenon
Phenomenon refers to something observed or noticed, often implying rarity, significance, or noteworthy quality. It is used in both academic and everyday contexts to describe events, trends, or persons of particular interest or impressiveness. The word carries a somewhat formal or objective tone compared to more casual alternatives like 'thing' or 'occurrence'.
Common phrases
- remarkable phenomenon
- natural phenomenon
- social phenomenon
- cultural phenomenon
- phenomenon of interest
Synonyms
occurrence · event · happening · spectacle · marvel
Word family
phenomena (plural) · phenomenal (adjective) · phenomenally (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners often confuse the plural form: the correct plural is 'phenomena' (Greek origin), not 'phenomenons', though 'phenomenons' is sometimes used informally.
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