befall

verb
UK: /bɪˈfɔːl/
US: /bɪˈfɔːl/

  1. If something bad befalls you, it happens to you.

    1. Bad luck can befall anyone, so be careful. [ ] [ ]
    2. A similar fate could befall other small towns if industries disappear so rapidly. [ ] [ ]

  2. To happen to someone; to occur.

    1. I hope no harm will befall you on your trip. [ ] [ ]
    2. The tragedy that befell their family left everyone in the community heartbroken. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

happen chance occur betide

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "befall" in English means: If something bad befalls you, it happens to you., To happen to someone; to occur..

The phonetic transcription of "befall" is /bɪˈfɔːl/ in British English and /bɪˈfɔːl/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "befall": happen, chance, occur, betide.

Example usage of "befall": "Bad luck can befall anyone, so be careful.". More examples on the page.