Spanish word

sobrevenir

Pronunciation

IPA/soβɾeβeˈniɾ/

Meaning

  • verbhappen

Example

Puede sobrevenir un problema en cualquier momento.

A problem can happen at any time.

Illustration for sobrevenir (happen)

More examples

En la carretera puede sobrevenir un contratiempo que obligue a detener el viaje.

On the road a setback may occur that forces the trip to stop.

Core concept

A sudden change or occurrence that comes upon a situation.

Common phrases

  • sobrevenir dificultades

    difficulties arise

  • sobrevenir contratiempos

    setbacks occur

Similar words

pasar: Something happens in a broad, everyday sense, without formality.
ocurrir: An event takes place as a neutral, factual occurrence.
surgir: A new factor or problem suddenly emerges or comes to light.
suceder: An event occurs or follows, often used to narrate sequences.

Definition in Spanish

Llegar a ocurrir algo, sobre todo cuando sucede de forma inesperada o repentina.

Word origin

Derived from Latin supervenire (super- 'over' + venire 'to come'), literally 'to come upon', so it denotes something that happens unexpectedly or after the fact.

Usage tips

  • Often reserved for formal or written contexts, so in everyday conversation verbs like 'ocurrir' or 'pasar' usually sound more natural.

Opposites

Word lists with this word