Occurrent

An 'occurrent' thing, often a noun, denotes something happening, existing, or taking place *at a particular time or during a specific period.* It emphasizes the *temporality and actuality* of an event, state, or object. The term implies a sense of *being in progress* or *being directly observable.* Unlike 'eternal' or 'timeless' concepts, an occurrent element is situated within the flow of time, reflecting a concrete instance rather than a general category. It can apply to physical events, mental states, and transient objects.

Occurrent meaning with examples

• The earthquake was a terrifying occurrent, shaking buildings and disrupting daily life. Its impact, recorded on seismographs, demonstrates its specific moment in time, clearly marking its occurrence. The occurrent nature of the event meant its effects, though far-reaching, were bound to the temporal span of the quake.
• The flash of lightning was a brief, yet powerful occurrent. For that split second, the sky was illuminated, and all eyes were upon its singular display. This occurrent atmospheric event, with its sudden start and immediate disappearance, provides a powerful example of how the term marks distinct, observable occurrences.
• His feeling of intense joy was a fleeting occurrent, sparked by good news. The emotion, though deeply felt, was anchored to a specific point in time; it was a temporal event, or an occurrent experience. It began and ended with the unfolding narrative of its cause, revealing the temporary existence of the emotion.
• The rainstorm was an occurrent, with each raindrop hitting the pavement representing a piece of this larger, temporal experience. The puddles and the wet streets were all evidence of the storm's duration as an occurrent. The storm, with its beginning and eventual end, fits the temporal characteristic.
• The artist's inspiration for the painting, which was seen in a dream was a mental occurrent, a transient state influencing their later action. This occurrent idea, existing in that moment, led to the creation of the eventual artwork. Thus, this example highlights that not all occurrents are physical.