ocasión
/okaˈsjon/
The English phrase "occasion" is translated into Spanish as ocasión.
The word ocasión is used to refer to a special event or function. It is also the standard word for the English word "opportunity", such as in the phrase una ocasión de oro (a golden opportunity).
Meaning: special event or function (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of ocasión is ocasiones.
How do you pronounce it?
/okaˈsjon/
Did you know?
- In Spanish shopping contexts, the word ocasión is frequently used as a synonym for 'discount' or 'bargain'. A store advertising ropa de ocasión might be selling items at a reduced price rather than clothes for a special event.
- Spanish uses the word ocasión in the phrase de ocasión to describe second-hand items. For example, un coche de ocasión refers to a used car that is still in good condition.
- The Spanish word ocasión is a linguistic relative of the English word 'fall' because it derives from the Latin 'occidere', which means 'to fall down'.
Examples in context
- Esa es una ocasión especial.This is a special occasion.This sentence demonstrates how to use ocasión when describing a special event.Tatoeba #2108519 by lazarus1907, translation #241984 by CK
- Será una ocasión muy importante.It'll be a big occasion.This sentence shows how to use ocasión when referring to an important event.Tatoeba #3566697 by ficion, translation #3315059 by CK
- Tu vestido es inapropiado para la ocasión.Your dress is unsuitable for the occasion.This sentence illustrates using ocasión to describe suitability for a specific event.Tatoeba #1167838 by marcelostockle, translation #16913 by CK
- La ocasión de hoy es importante.Today's occasion is important.
- El evento será en el hotel más cercano.The event will take place at the nearest hotel.
- Tenemos que celebrar este gran momento.We have to celebrate this great moment.
- Este es un momento único en la vida.This is a unique moment in life.
- 14 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are discussing a wedding invitation.
- Alejandro¿Vas a ir a la boda?Are you going to the wedding?
- MaríaSí, es una ocasión muy especial.Yes, it is a very special occasion.
- AlejandroElla estará muy feliz de verte.She will be very happy to see you.
- MaríaYo también estoy emocionada por la ocasión.I am also excited about the occasion.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ocasión, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ocasión, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
