The verb 'happen'

#1 (**permalink**) 27-Jul-2003, 23:19

Hello everybody!

As I figured out, the verb 'happen' can mean 'to do or be by chance'. However, I still cannot use this verb properly because I don't know exactly in which situation it can be used. Let's take a look at the following example: "I happen to think he's right." What does this mean exactly?

Thanks in advance. :D

RonBee · #2 (**permalink**) 28-Jul-2003, 04:37

"I happen to think he's right" means "I think he's right". It might be used in the sense of a contradiction.

A: I think he's wrong about that. What do you think?
B: Well, I happen to think he's right.

Only context can really tell you what the exact meaning of the statement might be.

8)

#3 (**permalink**) 28-Jul-2003, 10:37

Quote:

Originally Posted by RonBee

"I happen to think he's right" means "I think he's right". It might be used in the sense of a contradiction.

A: I think he's wrong about that. What do you think?
B: Well, I happen to think he's right.

Only context can really tell you what the exact meaning of the statement might be.

8)

That is a new usage for me. Thank you!

#4 (**permalink**) 28-Jul-2003, 14:19

Thank you RonBee.

Tdol · #5 (**permalink**) 28-Jul-2003, 20:44

If you happen to see her, tell her I won't be coming.

Here it means 'by any chance'.


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