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How can it happen? vs How it can happen?

The correct phrase is "how can it happen?". In English, when forming a question with an auxiliary verb like "can", the subject and the verb are inverted. Therefore, the correct structure is "how can it happen?".

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 2991 views

How can it happen?

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to ask about the possibility or manner in which something can occur.

Examples:

  • How can it happen without any warning?
  • How can it happen so quickly?
  • How can it happen in this situation?
  • How can it happen at this time?
  • How can it happen in this place?
  • How can it happen?
  • How can something like that happen?
  • How can something like this happen?
  • But how can we get everyone from the shop into the locker room tomorrow to watch it happen?
  • Think you can just let it happen?
  • What do you mean if it happens?
  • How do I know it happens?
  • You selfish enough to let it happen?
  • What's the best way to make it happen?
  • What difference does it make where it happens?
  • This setup, where did it happen?
  • How can such an accident happen?
  • How can you let this happen?
  • How can they allow this shutdown to happen?
  • How can you let this happen?
  • How... how can this happen?
  • How can the gods let this happen?
  • How can you help me make that happen?
  • Well, how can this happen?
  • If I may ask... how did it happen?

How it can happen?

This phrase is incorrect in English. The correct structure for a question with an auxiliary verb like "can" requires the subject and verb to be inverted.

  • You know how people always say that when you stop trying, it can happen?
  • Do you really believe that impossible things can happen?
  • But what's the worst that can happen?
  • The way things are, What else can happen?
  • What is the worst that can happen?
  • What the hell else bad can happen?
  • I mean, what's the worst that can happen?
  • Besides, what's the worst that can happen?
  • What's the worst that can happen?
  • I guess some people figure, What's the worst that can happen?
  • I mean, what's the worst that can happen?
  • Sure. What's the worst that can happen?
  • I need to know... what is the worst that can happen?
  • Who's to say nothing can happen?
  • You got anyplace that your father could lay low until that meeting can happen?
  • Besides, what's the worst that can happen?
  • In time, who knows what can happen?
  • I mean, what's the worst that can happen?
  • Here. Give it a go, what's the worse thing can happen?
  • ! Look, if she stays upstairs, what's the worst that can happen?

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