that happen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that happen" is not correct in standard English; it should be "that happens" or "that happened" depending on the context.
You can use it when referring to events or occurrences, but ensure the verb tense matches the subject and context. Example: "I often think about the mistakes that happen during the project."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"It's things that happen.

The New York Times - Sports

Why did that happen?

The New York Times - Sports

"When did that happen?

The New York Times - Sports

How did that happen?

The New York Times

Somebody else made that happen".

The New York Times

how did that happen?

Duke University

Events are things that happen.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

America can help that happen.

The New York Times

PAULINA: How did that happen?

The New Yorker

Don't let that happen.

Science Magazine

"Just things that happen".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a singular event, ensure you use "that happens" or "that happened" for grammatical correctness. While "that happen" is frequently used, it doesn't adhere to standard English grammar.

Common error

Avoid using "that happen" when referring to a single event or subject. Always conjugate the verb to match the subject, using "that happens" for present tense or "that happened" for past tense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that happen" functions as a relative clause introducing an event or occurrence. Although often used, Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically incorrect, as the verb form does not agree with the singular relative pronoun "that".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "that happen" is frequently used across various contexts, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect. The correct forms are "that happens" (present tense) and "that happened" (past tense). Although common in informal communication and even appearing in news media, it is advisable to avoid using "that happen" in formal writing to maintain grammatical accuracy and professionalism. Consider alternatives like "that occurs" or "that takes place" for more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that happens

Adds the correct singular verb form to match the singular antecedent, correcting the grammatical error.

that occurred

Replaces the present tense with the past tense, indicating a completed event or occurrence.

that took place

Uses a more formal expression to describe an event that has happened.

that came about

Emphasizes the process or manner in which something happened or was created.

that transpired

A formal and somewhat literary way to describe events that unfolded or happened.

that materialized

Suggests that something became real or apparent, often after a period of planning or anticipation.

that unfolded

Implies a gradual revelation or development of events over time.

that ensued

Describes events that followed or resulted from a particular action or situation.

that followed

Highlights the sequential nature of events, indicating what came after.

that developed

Focuses on the process of growth or evolution of an event or situation.

FAQs

How should I correctly use the phrase "that happen" in a sentence?

While "that happen" is often used, it's grammatically incorrect. Instead, use "that happens" for present tense, such as, "It's one of those things that happens", or "that happened" for past tense, for example, "It's one of the things that happened".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "that happen"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "that occurs", "that takes place", or "that transpires".

Is it more appropriate to say "that happen" or "that happens"?

The grammatically correct form is "that happens". "That happen" is considered incorrect in standard English because the verb doesn't agree with the singular "that". Using the correct form ensures clarity and professionalism in your writing.

In what contexts is the phrase "that happen" commonly used, despite being grammatically incorrect?

Despite its grammatical errors, the phrase "that happen" appears in informal conversations and writing, especially in contexts where precise grammar is not prioritized. However, formal writing should always use "that happens" or "that happened".