The verb 'happen'

[sebastian__rs]

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.

 

[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)

 

[Albin]

"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!

 

[sebastian__rs]

Thank you RonBee.

 

[Tdol]

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

Here it means 'by any chance'. ;-)