“It so happens that” is a common phrase used in English communication, but it can be difficult to understand its exact meaning. In this article, we will define the phrase and provide several examples of how it is used in everyday conversation.
Definition of “It so happens that”
“It so happens that” is an idiomatic expression that means “by chance” or “coincidentally.” It is typically used to introduce a fact or circumstance that is surprising or unexpected. The phrase is often used to explain why something occurred or to link two seemingly unrelated events.
For example:
- It so happens that I was just thinking about you before you called.
- It so happens that I have an extra ticket to the concert tonight.
- It so happens that the restaurant we were planning to go to is closed today.
In each of these examples, the speaker is introducing a fact or circumstance that may be unexpected or surprising. The phrase “it so happens that” makes it clear that the information being shared is not intentional, but rather a coincidence.
Examples of Usage
Here are some additional examples of how “it so happens that” can be used in conversation:
Example 1:
A friend is telling you about a coincidence they experienced earlier in the day.
Friend: “It so happens that I ran into my old roommate on the street this morning.”
Example 2:
You are explaining why you were late to a meeting.
You: “It so happens that there was a traffic accident on the highway, which caused a huge delay.”
Example 3:
You are trying to plan a vacation with a friend.
Friend: “It so happens that I have family who live near the beach you want to visit.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, “it so happens that” is a useful phrase for introducing facts or circumstances that may be surprising or unexpected. It is often used to explain why something occurred or to link two seemingly unrelated events. By understanding the meaning of this phrase, you can effectively communicate your thoughts and ideas in English conversations.