it happens that

USAGE SUMMARY

"it happens that" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It can be used to introduce a statement or observation that comes as a surprise or may be unexpected. For example, "It happens that we have seen each other once before, though I'm sure you don't remember."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If it happens, that is.

The Economist

It happens that very night.

The New York Times - Magazine

As it happens, that is Jack's speciality.

The New York Times - Books

But, as it happens, that ain't true.

The New Yorker

As it happens, that idea isn't Obama's position.

The Washington Post

As it happens that was over a Kerry Katona story.

The Guardian

As it happens, that story, too, opens with a wedding.

The New Yorker

As it happens, that very good reason is -- water.

The New York Times - Science

If it happens, that would be a game-changer.

The Guardian

As it happens, that official was himself caught in the trap.

The New York Times

Because once it happens, that damage can take years — yes, a decade or more — to repair.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it happens that" to introduce a surprising or unexpected piece of information, adding an element of intrigue to your writing.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "it happens that" in formal or academic contexts, as it can sometimes sound informal. Consider alternatives like "it emerges that" or "it turns out that" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it happens that" functions as a discourse marker or connector. According to Ludwig, it introduces a statement, fact, or situation that is presented as somewhat surprising, coincidental, or unexpected. It smoothly transitions into the main point.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

23%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it happens that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce surprising or unexpected information, as validated by Ludwig's analysis and numerous examples. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts but also appears in scientific and academic writing. While grammatically correct and commonly used, writers should be mindful of the level of formality required by the context. Alternatives like "it turns out that" or "as it happens" may be more appropriate depending on the desired tone. Ludwig AI also highlights its effectiveness as a connector to smoothly transition into a subsequent point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it so happens that

Adds a touch of formality and emphasis to the unexpected nature of the event.

it just so happens that

Similar to 'it so happens that', but with a slightly more casual tone.

it turns out that

Emphasizes the revealing of information after a period of uncertainty or investigation.

as it turns out

Highlights the unfolding of events leading to an unexpected outcome.

it emerges that

Suggests a gradual revealing of information, often after investigation.

as it happens

Slightly more casual, suggesting a coincidental occurrence.

coincidentally

Focuses specifically on the element of chance or coincidence.

by chance

Underscores the role of luck or random events.

as luck would have it

Highlights the role of fortune, either positive or negative.

serendipitously

Emphasizes the fortunate and accidental nature of the discovery.

FAQs

How can I use "it happens that" in a sentence?

Use "it happens that" to introduce a surprising or coincidental fact. For example, "It happens that I know the person you're talking about."

What are some alternatives to "it happens that"?

You can use alternatives like "it turns out that", "as it happens", or "coincidentally" depending on the context.

Is "it happens that" formal or informal?

"It happens that" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. In very formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "it emerges that".

What's the difference between "it happens that" and "as it happens"?

The phrases "it happens that" and "as it happens" are very similar, but "as it happens" often implies a more direct and immediate connection to the current situation.