propitious event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "propitious event" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an event that is favorable or advantageous, often in a context where timing or circumstances are beneficial. Example: "The sudden rain was a propitious event for the farmers, as it ensured a good harvest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It was held in a bare concrete temple opposite his wooden house, and was to celebrate the third birthday, a propitious event, of one of his wife's distant relatives.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Unifying states needed more than just will; they needed propitious events and conditions.

The New York Times

Despite such propitious turns of events, Lemelson and his disciples may have met their match in Washington, D.C., where a Congressional subcommittee is drafting legislation that mandates the overhaul of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Forbes

Using a person's birth date, Vedic astrologers create charts to determine a lucky number and provide propitious dates for major events.

The New York Times

The well-established experimental system of isolation and culture of tobacco zygotes and proembryos is propitious to investigating the early events and mechanism of dicotyledonous plant embryogenesis.

BMC Plant Biology

The timing of the Reissfelder case was propitious for Kerry.

The New Yorker

TN Technologies and CKS will be launching their new efforts at a propitious time when web traffic is growing, thanks to such world-riveting events as the death and funeral of Princess Diana and the Mars Pathfinder landing.

Forbes

Yesterday Jews across the world celebrated the festival of Purim, or Lots, which derives its name from the lots cast by the villain of a Biblical story, Haman, to determine the most propitious day for the extermination of the Jews of Persia, and which commemorates the events recounted in the Hebrew scriptural book of Esther.

The Guardian

There is no guarantee of a different outcome this time, but the circumstances are more propitious.

The Economist

The timing was propitious.

The New York Times - Magazine

His timing was propitious.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "propitious event", consider the audience and context. While grammatically correct, it's a somewhat formal phrase. In more casual settings, a simpler term like "lucky break" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "propitious event" in everyday conversations or informal writing. Its formality can sound stilted or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "good timing" or "fortunate event" when communicating with a general audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "propitious event" functions as a noun phrase where "propitious" modifies "event". It serves to describe an event that is particularly favorable or advantageous. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "propitious event" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a particularly favorable or opportune occurrence. As reported by Ludwig, while usable, it leans towards the formal side, appearing primarily in news and media contexts. For more casual settings, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. The term is relatively rare, so choose it carefully to ensure it aligns with the overall tone and intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

favorable occurrence

Replaces "propitious" with "favorable", emphasizing the positive nature of the event.

auspicious occasion

Substitutes "event" with "occasion" and "propitious" with "auspicious", highlighting the favorable circumstances.

fortunate incident

Emphasizes the element of luck or good fortune associated with the event.

opportune moment

Focuses on the timeliness of the event, suggesting it occurred at the best possible time.

serendipitous happening

Highlights the accidental and beneficial nature of the event.

advantageous circumstance

Emphasizes the benefit derived from the set of conditions surrounding the event.

providential development

Suggests a divine or fortunate intervention in the unfolding of the event.

beneficial turn of events

Highlights how the event results in a positive change or outcome.

felicitous juncture

Indicates a particularly well-suited or agreeable point in time or circumstances.

golden opportunity

Implies the event presents a valuable chance for success or advancement.

FAQs

How can I use "propitious event" in a sentence?

You can use "propitious event" to describe a situation or occurrence that presents a favorable opportunity or advantage. For example, "The unexpected funding was a "propitious event" for the struggling company".

What are some alternatives to "propitious event"?

Alternatives to "propitious event" include "favorable occurrence", "auspicious occasion", or "fortunate incident". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "propitious event" formal or informal?

"Propitious event" leans towards the formal side. For more informal situations, consider using phrases like "lucky break" or "good timing".

What does "propitious" mean in the context of "propitious event"?

In the phrase "propitious event", "propitious" means presenting favorable conditions or being indicative of success. It suggests that the event is likely to lead to a positive outcome.