Chance

/tʃæns/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The possibility of something happening; the likelihood or probability.

There is a good chance of rain this afternoon.

An opportunity to do something.

She took a chance and applied for the job despite her lack of experience.

An event or occurrence that is unlikely to happen.

Winning the lottery is a rare chance.

verb

To do something that has a possibility of a negative outcome.

He decided to chance it and go hiking despite the bad weather.

To risk or expose oneself to a particular outcome.

You should not chance losing your money in such an unpredictable market.

Middle English: from Old French 'chance', from Latin 'cadentia' meaning 'a falling'.

by chance

occurring unexpectedly or without intention.

give it a chance

to allow something to happen to see its outcome.

take a chance

to risk something for a potential gain.

chance encounter

an unexpected meeting with someone.

in the chance

referring to an uncertain situation or possibility.

opportunity

a favorable or advantageous circumstance.

fortune

the chances of good or bad luck.

risk

the possibility of suffering harm or loss.

probability

the likelihood of a given outcome.

moment

a brief period of time with the potential for action.

A shot at something.

I'm going to take my chance and ask her out.

A favorable situation.

This looks like a good chance to score some points.