an incident

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an incident" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an event or occurrence, often one that is unusual or noteworthy. Example: "The police were called to investigate an incident that took place in the park last night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A 2.3-mile drive to an incident.

Independent

This is an incident in isolation.

The New York Times

Tells about an incident at summer….

The New Yorker

Such an incident can happen anywhere.

Independent

"That's an incident," he replies.

The Guardian - Money

The Tonkin Gulf incident was not even an incident, since an incident, to be an incident, has to occur.

The New Yorker

Not even what you'd call an incident.

The Guardian - Books

Not that he imagined such an incident.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is an incident with many casualties.

The New York Times

Mopreme recalled an incident that was emblematic.

The New Yorker

If that's an incident, then there might have been an incident".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "event" or "occurrence" if the specific connotation of "incident" (often implying something negative or noteworthy) is not intended.

Common error

Avoid using "an incident" as a vague placeholder without providing any clarifying information. Instead, offer relevant details or use a more descriptive term to avoid confusion or ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an incident" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it refers to a specific event or occurrence, frequently one of some significance or note. Examples include "Such an incident can happen anywhere" and "There was an incident during 9NEWS today."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an incident" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to refer to a specific event, often one that is noteworthy or has consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English. Its frequent appearance in news media and scientific publications indicates a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, providing context and specific details is essential to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "an event" or "an occurrence" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an occurrence

Focuses on the fact that something happened, often without implying significance or impact.

an event

A broad term for something that happens, whether planned or unplanned.

an episode

Suggests a distinct event within a larger series or context.

a circumstance

Highlights the surrounding conditions or details of an event.

a situation

Emphasizes the state of affairs or conditions at a particular time.

a case

Implies a specific instance or example being considered.

a happening

Informal term for something that takes place, often unexpectedly.

a development

Highlights the unfolding or progression of an event.

a matter

Refers to a subject or issue under consideration or in question.

a phenomenon

Points to something observable and significant, often of scientific interest.

FAQs

How can I use "an incident" in a sentence?

You can use "an incident" to refer to a specific event, often one that is unusual or noteworthy. For example, "The police are investigating "an incident" that occurred downtown last night."

What can I say instead of "an incident"?

You can use alternatives like "an event", "an occurrence", or "an episode" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "an incident" over "an event"?

"An incident" often implies something unexpected or potentially problematic, while "an event" is a more neutral term for something that happens. Choose "an incident" when the event is noteworthy or has consequences.

What is the difference between "an incident" and "a situation"?

"An incident" refers to a specific event, while "a situation" describes the general state of affairs. "An incident" might create or change a situation.