occasioni

Occasioni is the plural form of the Italian noun occasione. It denotes a favorable time or chance to do something, a suitable moment, or an event or occurrence. In everyday language, occasioni can refer to opportunities in personal or professional life, to gatherings or occasions in the sense of events, or to commercial offers and bargains.

Etymology and related terms: Occasioni derives from the Italian word occasione, which in turn comes from Latin occasio, meaning a favorable time or opportunity. The term is cognate with the French and Spanish equivalents and with the English word occasion. In Italian, the feminine noun is occasione in the singular (un’occasione) and occasioni in the plural (le occasioni).

Usage notes: Occasioni are often used to express favorable moments for action or decision, as well as notable events. In commerce, un’occasione can mean a special deal or sale. Expressions include un’occasione da non perdere (an opportunity not to be missed) and cogliere l’occasione (to seize the opportunity). The word is distinct from circostanze (circumstances) and evento (event), though the meanings can overlap in context.

Examples: Ha colto l’occasione per presentare il progetto. Queste sono occasioni rare. Le occasioni di risparmio sono molto apprezzate dai consumatori.

See also: occasione (singular), circostanza, evento, opportunità.