to happen again

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to happen again" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an event or situation that is expected to occur once more in the future. Example: "I hope that this mistake does not happen again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's bound to happen again".

Independent

It's going to happen again".

The New York Times

Now, that's going to happen again.

The New Yorker

That's not going to happen again.

The New York Times

" 'Is 2008 going to happen again?

The New York Times

"Do not allow this to happen again".

The New York Times

Nobody expects that to happen again soon.

The Economist

"It's not going to happen again".

The New York Times - Sports

It is never going to happen again.

The New York Times - Sports

"Waiting for it to happen again".

The New Yorker

It needs to happen again.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to happen again", ensure the context clearly indicates what event or situation is being referred to. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "to happen again" without a clear reference to the initial event. Ambiguity can confuse readers and weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to happen again" primarily functions as a complement or adjunct within a clause. It often expresses a desire, concern, or expectation regarding the recurrence of an event. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to happen again" is a grammatically correct and very common infinitive phrase used to express concerns, wishes, or expectations about the recurrence of events. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the context clearly indicates the event in question. Related phrases include "to recur" and "to take place again". Ensure not to use past tense (to happened again). This guide provides a full overview of its proper usage and alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to take place again

A more neutral and straightforward alternative.

to recur

Focuses on the idea of something happening repeatedly or periodically.

to reoccur

Similar to 'to recur', but often implies a more spaced-out or less predictable repetition.

to repeat itself

Emphasizes that the entire event or situation is being replicated.

to be repeated

Passive voice construction emphasizing the act of repetition.

to come back

Suggests a return after an absence or cessation.

to transpire again

A more formal way of saying 'to happen again'.

to materialise again

Implies something becoming real or visible once more.

to arise again

Suggests the re-emergence of an issue or situation.

to relive

Focuses on the experience of going through something again.

FAQs

How can I use "to happen again" in a sentence?

You can use "to happen again" when referring to a situation or event that you anticipate, hope, or fear will recur. For instance, "We must ensure this error doesn't happen again."

What's a more formal way of saying "to happen again"?

A more formal alternative is "to reoccur" or "to recur". These options are suitable for academic or professional writing.

Is it correct to say "to happened again"?

No, "to happened again" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "to happen again", using the base form of the verb after "to".

What's the difference between "to happen again" and "to repeat itself"?

"To happen again" refers to any event recurring, while "to repeat itself" often implies a pattern or cycle of events being replicated.