incidence
noun
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The words incident, incidence, and instance may seem similar (and, in fact, incident and incidence are closely related), but they are applied in different ways. In current use, incidence usually means "rate of occurrence" and is often qualified in some way ("a high incidence of bear sightings"). Incident usually refers to a particular event, often something unusual or unpleasant ("many such incidents go unreported"). Instance suggests a particular occurrence that is offered as an example ("another instance of a simple change bringing real improvement"); it can also be synonymous with case ("many instances/cases in which the wrong form was submitted"). The plural incidences sometimes occurs in such contexts as "several recent incidences of bear sightings," but this use is often criticized as incorrect.
Examples of incidence in a Sentence
Dr. Sarah Danziger, ABC News, 31 May 2024
Ultimately, colonoscopy screening can significantly reduce the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer.
—Discover Magazine, 31 May 2024
However, the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer—which refers to cases diagnosed in people under age 50—is rising and has doubled since the 1990s.34
The review—published in JAMA Network Open on May 24—looked at 81 studies that included data from over 24 million people younger than 50.
—Julia Landwehr, Health, 30 May 2024
Image Studies have shown that consistent emotional support and strong partner bonds lower blood pressure, strengthen the immune system and reduce the death rate from cancer and the incidence of heart disease.
—Penelope Green, New York Times, 28 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for incidence 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'incidence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Incidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incidence. Accessed 9 Jun. 2024.
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