# befall

/bɪˈfɔɫ/ (US) · /bɪfˈɔːl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/befall
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

to happen to someone or something, often in a way that is unexpected or difficult. It is a very formal word that people usually use when talking about bad luck or serious events.

For teachers: to happen to a person or thing, typically in a manner that is unexpected or unfortunate. Often used in the passive voice to describe misfortune or significant events.

## Examples

- The storm soon befalls the small coastal village.
- The sudden economic downturn soon befalls the local businesses that were not prepared for the change.
- In the final chapter of the novel, the protagonist's long-held hopes are cruelly befallen by a series of tragic misunderstandings that lead to his exile.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.