circonstance

circumstance

noun seer-kohn-STAHNS Less Common

Origin: Latin 'circumstantia' (surrounding conditions)

Usage Note

Circonstance is typically used in the plural (dans les circonstances actuelles = in the current circumstances). The legal phrase circonstances atténuantes means 'mitigating circumstances'. The adjective circonstancié means 'detailed' or 'circumstantial' (as in a detailed account).

Examples

"Dans ces circonstances, il vaut mieux attendre."

Natural Translation

In these circumstances, it's better to wait.

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