eventuate

eventuality, eventuate

Both words date from the 18c and have had their fair share of criticism. Eventuate was derided by De Quincy (1834) as ‘Yankeeish’ and by Dean Alford (1864) as ‘another horrible word’, and Fowler (1926) castigated both as ‘flabby journalese’, leaving a string of ‘characteristic specimens’ to speak for themselves. It is undeniable that result or come about, or sometimes simply happen, are often preferable alternatives:

• It had been intended to have educated Saudi women dealing with the public at the exhibition, but…this had not eventuated —Times, 1986

• I hope a sensible result eventuates —Express, 2002.

Eventuality has been less fiercely attacked, although it is often a mere synonym for circumstance, event, or possibility:

• Although he had been ordered not to destroy it, Harmel was prepared for the eventuality —C. Ryan, 1974

• It is essential you cover every eventuality —Daily Mail, 2007.