how it came about; the origin of the matter
Refers to the beginning or cause of an event, often used when recounting a story or explaining a situation. The gloss 'the origins of the imbroglio' is a more dramatic, literary rendering.
The origin of the matter was a small misunderstanding.
Please explain in detail how it came about.
Standard kanji spelling.
Kana-mixed spelling; may be used for clarity or in informal writing.
Compound of 事 (こと, 'matter, affair') + の (possessive particle) + 起こり (おこり, 'origin, beginning').