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that happens vs this happens

Both are correct phrases in English, but they're used in different contexts. 'That happens' is used to refer to something that's just occurred or is currently happening, while 'this happens' is used to refer to something that's about to happen or is happening in the present moment.
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Explained by Miss E.
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: September 19, 2024 • 16970 views

that happens

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to something that has just occurred or is currently happening.

Use 'that happens' to describe a situation or event that is taking place or has just taken place.

Examples:

  • I was walking down the street, and then that happens.
  • When you least expect it, that happens.
  • Anything bad that happens is blamed on them.
  • When that happens, take her to quarantine.
  • When that happens, the captain will most likely react poorly.
  • Do whatever it takes to make sure that happens.
  • I would see him die before that happens.
  • Let's get everybody out of here before that happens.
  • I want to issue a statement before that happens.
  • Nothing will stand in my way when that happens.
  • No other communication until that happens.
  • Sidao seeks to secure war before that happens.
  • Ben, nothing that happens afterwards will matter.
  • There's two things you can do when that happens.
  • Or two, we leave, none of that happens.
  • I always wonder where it goes when that happens.
  • When that happens, you learn how to survive any way you can.
  • Lot of reasons that happens, Bishop.
  • He says that that happens sometimes with older siblings.
  • I gather that happens when you're prince.
  • Okay, well, when that happens...
  • Believe me, I know that happens.

Alternatives:

  • that occurred
  • that took place
  • that happened

this happens

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to something that is about to happen or is happening in the present moment.

Use 'this happens' to describe a situation or event that is currently happening or is about to happen.

Examples:

  • I can't believe this happens every time.
  • When you press this button, this happens.
  • Okay, this happens in business all the time.
  • This... this happens all the time.
  • So this happens over many years?
  • When this happens, white smoke is sent up from the Vatican.
  • Naturally, this happens both in Greece and in other countries.
  • But the paramedics told me that sometimes this happens.
  • Only in the hottest years this happens.
  • And when something like this happens, you deny everything.
  • Honey, every morning this happens.
  • I bet this happens all the time.
  • I can't believe I go out of town and this happens.
  • We all feel guilty when something awful like this happens.
  • I want your attendance when this happens.
  • All of this happens in seconds.
  • When this happens, the dead bolts are automatically activated on the door.
  • And this happens to millions of people every year.
  • Someone who cancels the broadcast when something like this happens.
  • Security protocol in case this happens.
  • And this happens to be the minister of mobile gaming.
  • Every time this happens, you think everybody knows.

Alternatives:

  • this occurs
  • this takes place
  • this is happening

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