special occasion — important event
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
A special event or time that is celebrated or remembered because it is important or meaningful.
Say it like a native
Textbook We reserve this wine for events of particular significance.
Native We save this wine for special occasions.
'Special occasion' is the set phrase; the paraphrase is stiff.
Pattern: on/for a special occasion; special occasion + noun
In use
- We usually go out for dinner on special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.daily life
- In my country, people often buy new clothes for special occasions such as weddings or important festivals.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ We only drink it in special occasions.
✓ We only drink it on special occasions.
Use 'ON special occasions', not 'in'.
Common collocations
special occasion + use— on special occasions, for a special occasion, dress for, mark
Don't confuse it
Do not confuse with 'regular day' or 'everyday event,' which are not special occasions.