French word

circonstance

Pronunciation

IPA/siʁkɔ̃stɑ̃s/

Meaning

  • feminine nounsituation

Example

Il faut adapter notre réponse à la circonstance.

We need to adapt our response to the situation.

Illustration for circonstance (situation)

More examples

Selon la circonstance, il vaut mieux reporter la réunion.

Depending on the circumstances, it is better to postpone the meeting.

Core concept

A cluster of conditions standing around an action and influencing the appropriate response.

Common phrases

  • tenir compte de la circonstance

    take the circumstances into account

  • selon la circonstance

    depending on the circumstances

Similar words

situation: The way things stand in a particular place, setting, or moment.
contexte: The background circumstances surrounding an event, action, or statement.
condition: A particular state or requirement under which something occurs.
cas: A specific situation considered as an example or instance.

Definition in French

Ensemble des conditions qui entourent un fait ou une action.

Word origin

The noun derives from Latin circumstantia, from circumstare, meaning 'to stand around', and entered French through Old French.

Usage tips

  • Circonstance is more formal than situation in many everyday contexts, especially when referring to general conditions rather than a specific setting.

Other meanings

  • circumstancenoun

Word lists with this word