A2noun1K

Chance

UK /["/tʃɑːns/"]/US /["/tʃæns/"]/

Definition

a possibility of something happening, especially something that you want

In simple words: A possibility of something happening.

Examples

  • She took a chance and applied for the job, despite her doubts.
  • You should seize the chance to travel while you can.
  • There's a good chance it will rain tomorrow.
  • He rolled the dice for a chance to win the game.
  • Give him a second chance; everyone deserves one.

Usage notes

Use 'chance' when discussing the likelihood of an event. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts but avoid using it in very formal documents. It can often be replaced with 'opportunity' when talking about the possibility for success.

Grammar pattern

chance + of + gerund/noun

Memory hint

Think of 'chance' as a 'door of opportunity'—you might walk through it or not.

Collocations

  • excellent
  • good
  • high
  • give somebody
  • be in with
  • have
  • by any chance
  • chance of
  • chance for
  • fat chance
  • have every chance
  • no chance!
  • equal
  • fair
  • good
  • element
  • get
  • have
  • deserve
  • arise
  • come
  • come your way
  • chance at
  • given the chance
  • half a chance
  • let a chance slip
  • take
  • chance on
  • chance with
  • mere
  • pure
  • sheer
  • leave something to
  • by chance
  • due to chance
  • through chance
  • a game of chance
  • take your chances

Synonyms

  • opportunity
  • possibility
  • likelihood
  • risk
  • fortune

Antonyms

  • certainty
  • inevitability

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'change' in spoken English.
  • Using 'chance' as a verb incorrectly.
  • Saying 'a chance to do' when it should be 'chance of doing'.