əˈkeɪʒən n. & v. --n. 1 a a
special or
noteworthy event or
happening (dressed
for the occasion). b the
time or
occurrence of
this (on the occasion of
their marriage). 2 (often foll. by for, or to + infin.) a
reason, ground, or justification (there is no occasion to be angry). 3 a
juncture suitable for
doing something; an
opportunity. 4 an
immediate but
subordinate or
incidental cause (the assassination
was the occasion of the war). --v.tr. 1 be the occasion or cause
of;
bring about esp.
incidentally. 2 (foll. by to + infin.) cause (a
person or
thing to do something). øon occasion
now and then;
when the
need arises.
rise to the occasion
produce the
necessary will,
energy,
ability,
etc., in unusually demanding circumstances.
take occasion (foll. by to + infin.)
make use of the opportunity. [ME f. OF occasion or L occasio juncture, reason, f. occidere occasgo down (as
OB-, cadere fall)]