Meaning & Definition of word "Odds"
Odds
/ɒdz/
noun:
- 1. The ratio or probability of one outcome occurring against another.
- Example: The odds of winning the lottery are very low.
- 2. A measure of the likelihood of a particular outcome in gambling or betting.
- Example: The odds on the boxing match were heavily in favor of the champion.
- 3. The state of affairs that makes something difficult or unlikely.
- Example: She overcame the odds to graduate from college despite many obstacles.
- 4. In a state of disagreement or conflict.
- Example: The two brothers were at odds over how to run the family business.
verb:
- 1. To consider or estimate the likelihood of an event.
- Example: The team is odds-on to win the championship this year.
Etymology
●Middle English 'odds', from the plural of 'odd', meaning 'uneven'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
against all odds:
In spite of difficulties or disadvantages.
the odds are stacked against you:
The circumstances or conditions make success unlikely.
odd man out:
A person who is different from the others in a group.
Related Words
chance:
The occurrence of events in the absence of any obvious intention or cause.
risk:
The possibility of loss or injury.
variance:
The state of being different or varying.
Slang Meanings of odds
Meaning: Long odds
● Example Sentence: He faced long odds to succeed in his endeavors.
Meaning: Odds on
● Example Sentence: It's odds on they'll win the championship this year.