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A2 noun #19 most common 16 min read

chance

Top 19

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips chance in 30 Seconds

Explanation chance in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'chance' is most commonly introduced as a synonym for 'opportunity' in very simple, everyday contexts. Learners at this stage use it to talk about basic possibilities or to ask for permission in a polite way. For example, a student might say, 'I have a chance to play football today,' meaning they have the time and the situation allows it. The focus is on the concrete—having the 'chance' to do something fun or necessary. Grammatically, A1 learners usually stick to the pattern 'have a chance to [verb].' They might also encounter it in simple phrases like 'by chance,' though they may not fully understand the idiomatic nature of the phrase yet. The concept of mathematical probability is usually too advanced for this level, so 'chance' is primarily seen as a way to describe a lucky or favorable moment. Teachers often use 'chance' to help students express their desires and plans, making it a very personal and practical word. It is one of the first words used to move beyond simple 'can' or 'cannot' statements, allowing for a bit more nuance in how they describe their daily lives and activities. At this level, the distinction between 'chance' and 'opportunity' is not important; the goal is simply to communicate the idea of being able to do something.

At the A2 level, learners begin to use 'chance' with more variety and understanding of its different meanings. This is the level where the word is most formally introduced in many curricula. Students learn to distinguish between 'chance' as an opportunity and 'chance' as a probability. They start using phrases like 'There is a chance of rain' or 'What is the chance of winning?' This marks a shift from talking only about personal opportunities to discussing external events. A2 learners also become more familiar with common collocations like 'take a chance' and 'stand a chance.' They understand that 'taking a chance' involves a bit of risk, and 'standing a chance' is about the possibility of success. The prepositional use of 'by chance' becomes more frequent in their speech as they describe accidental meetings or findings. They also start to use adjectives to modify 'chance,' such as 'good chance' or 'small chance,' which allows them to be more specific about how likely they think something is. The grammar becomes slightly more complex, as they navigate the difference between 'chance to' and 'chance of.' This level is about building a solid foundation in the most common everyday uses of the word, allowing the learner to participate in basic conversations about plans, weather, and simple risks with confidence.

By the B1 level, learners are expected to use 'chance' fluently in a wide range of contexts, including more abstract and professional situations. They start to understand the subtle differences between 'chance' and its synonyms like 'opportunity' and 'possibility.' A B1 learner knows that 'opportunity' is better for formal writing and positive outcomes, while 'chance' is more versatile and can include risks. They are comfortable using 'chance' in the plural form ('chances') to discuss general likelihoods, such as 'The chances of the project succeeding are high.' Idiomatic expressions like 'on the off chance' or 'given half a chance' start to appear in their vocabulary, adding a layer of naturalness to their English. They can also use 'chance' to express polite requests more effectively, using phrases like 'Is there any chance you could...?' This level also involves understanding 'chance' in the context of news and media, where it is often used to discuss political outcomes, economic trends, and sports results. The B1 learner is moving away from simple definitions and starting to see 'chance' as a tool for nuanced expression. They can participate in discussions about risk-taking and the role of luck in life, using 'chance' to articulate their thoughts on these more complex topics. Their grammatical accuracy with the word is high, and they rarely confuse the prepositions 'to' and 'of' in standard patterns.

At the B2 level, 'chance' is used with a high degree of precision and awareness of register. Learners can distinguish between the informal 'chance' and the more formal 'likelihood' or 'probability' and choose the appropriate word for the situation. They are familiar with more advanced idioms and can use them correctly in conversation. For example, they might use 'fat chance' to sarcastically express that something is very unlikely, or 'leave nothing to chance' to describe a very careful and thorough plan. B2 learners also understand the use of 'chance' as a verb, though they may still prefer the noun form. They can analyze the use of 'chance' in literature or persuasive writing, recognizing how it can be used to create a sense of suspense or to discuss philosophical themes like fate versus free will. In professional contexts, they use 'chance' to discuss strategic risks and 'calculated chances.' They are also aware of the cultural connotations of the word, such as the 'American Dream' being a 'land of opportunity' (often phrased as 'giving everyone a chance'). Their ability to modify 'chance' with a wide range of adjectives—'remote,' 'negligible,' 'sporting,' 'fighting'—is well-developed. At this stage, the learner is not just using the word; they are mastering its nuances to sound like a sophisticated and natural speaker of English.

C1 learners use 'chance' with the ease and subtlety of a native speaker. They are fully aware of its historical and etymological roots, which can sometimes inform their understanding of its more literary uses. They can use the word to discuss complex mathematical and scientific concepts, such as 'random chance' in evolution or 'probability theory' in statistics, with clarity and precision. In their own writing, they use 'chance' to create specific tones, perhaps choosing 'opportunity' for a formal report but switching to 'chance' in a more personal or narrative piece to create a sense of immediacy or luck. They are adept at using 'chance' in complex grammatical structures, such as 'It so chanced that...' or 'Should the chance arise...' These structures add a level of sophistication and variety to their prose. C1 learners also understand the philosophical implications of 'chance' and can engage in deep debates about the nature of randomness and its impact on human history and individual lives. They can pick up on the subtle irony or humor when 'chance' is used in specific cultural references or wordplay. For a C1 learner, 'chance' is no longer just a vocabulary word; it is a versatile conceptual tool that they can manipulate to suit any communicative need, from the most technical scientific paper to the most evocative piece of creative writing.

At the C2 level, the mastery of 'chance' is complete. The learner understands every possible nuance, from its most archaic uses in classical literature to the latest slang or technical jargon. They can use 'chance' as a verb ('he chanced upon a discovery') or a noun with equal facility and grace. They are aware of the word's role in various idioms and proverbs across different English-speaking cultures and can use them with perfect timing and context. A C2 speaker can navigate the most complex discussions about quantum mechanics and the 'role of chance' at the subatomic level, or they can write a moving essay on the 'chances' we take in love and life. They are sensitive to the rhythmic and phonetic qualities of the word, using it effectively in poetry or rhetoric. They can also identify and explain the subtle differences between 'chance,' 'hazard,' 'fortuity,' and 'serendipity,' choosing the exact word that fits the desired meaning and tone. At this level, the learner's use of 'chance' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. They can play with the word, create puns, and use it to express the most delicate shades of meaning. For the C2 learner, 'chance' is a deeply integrated part of their linguistic repertoire, reflecting a profound understanding of both the English language and the unpredictable nature of the world it describes.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

chance in 30 Seconds

Chance means an opportunity to do something you want to do, like a job or a trip.
It also means the probability or likelihood of an event, such as weather or winning.
The word can describe random luck or things that happen without a plan (by chance).
Common phrases include 'take a chance' (risk) and 'stand a chance' (possibility of success).

The word 'chance' is a fundamental building block of the English language, primarily used to describe the possibility of something happening or a favorable set of circumstances that allow for an action—commonly referred to as an opportunity. At its core, 'chance' captures the essence of the unpredictable and the potential. It is a noun that bridges the gap between mathematical probability and the human experience of luck and timing. When we speak of chance, we are often navigating the delicate balance between what we can control and what is left to the whims of the universe. In everyday conversation, it is used to discuss everything from the weather to career advancements, making it an indispensable tool for learners at the A2 level and beyond.

Probability: This refers to the likelihood of an event occurring. For example, 'There is a high chance of rain today' suggests that based on evidence, rain is expected. It is a way of quantifying uncertainty.

Is there any chance that you could help me with my homework this evening?

Beyond simple probability, 'chance' frequently signifies an 'opportunity.' This is perhaps its most common usage in social and professional contexts. When someone says they 'had the chance to travel,' they are not talking about the probability of travel, but rather that the circumstances allowed them to do so. It implies a moment in time where an action became possible. Understanding this distinction is crucial because while 'opportunity' is almost always positive, 'chance' can be neutral or even negative depending on the context of the probability being discussed.

Luck or Fortune: Chance can also describe events that happen without an obvious cause or through pure luck. Phrases like 'by chance' highlight that something was not planned but occurred randomly, often with a surprising result.

We met entirely by chance while we were both waiting for the same bus in the city center.

In professional settings, 'chance' is often used to discuss risks. To 'take a chance' means to do something that involves a risk but might lead to a positive outcome. This usage is common in business, sports, and personal relationships. It suggests a level of bravery or a willingness to accept uncertainty. For instance, an entrepreneur might take a chance on a new product, or a student might take a chance by applying to a very difficult university. In these scenarios, the word 'chance' carries the weight of potential failure alongside the hope of success.

The athlete decided to take a chance and try a very difficult jump during the final round of the competition.

Risk and Hazard: When used in the context of danger, 'chance' implies a gamble. 'Don't take any chances' is a common warning meaning 'don't take unnecessary risks' or 'be careful and play it safe.'

The doctor told the patient not to take any chances with their health and to rest for at least a week.

Finally, 'chance' is used in mathematical and scientific contexts to describe randomness. In statistics, the 'laws of chance' govern how likely it is for certain patterns to emerge from random data. This more technical application still relies on the core definition of possibility but applies it with rigorous logic. Whether you are talking about a lucky encounter, a risky business move, or the statistical likelihood of a coin flip, 'chance' remains the central concept for describing the intersection of possibility and reality.

Scientists calculated the chance of the asteroid passing near Earth to be less than one in a million.

Using 'chance' correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its grammatical patterns and the specific prepositions that usually accompany it. As a noun, it often follows verbs like 'have,' 'get,' 'take,' or 'stand.' Each of these combinations creates a slightly different meaning, and mastering them will significantly improve your fluency. For instance, 'having a chance' is passive, while 'taking a chance' is active and involves a decision. Let's explore these patterns in detail to see how they function in various contexts, from casual speech to more formal writing.

Have a chance to [verb]: This is the most common way to describe having an opportunity. It is followed by an infinitive verb. Example: 'I had a chance to visit Paris last summer.'

She finally had a chance to speak with the manager about her promotion.

Another frequent pattern is 'chance of [noun/gerund].' This is typically used when discussing probability. If you say 'the chance of rain,' you are using a noun. If you say 'the chance of winning,' you are using a gerund. It is important to note that when talking about probability, we often use the plural 'chances' to sound more natural, as in 'What are the chances of that happening?' This plural form often implies a more general or speculative inquiry into the likelihood of an event.

Stand a chance: This idiom means to have a possibility of success. It is often used in the negative to indicate that success is unlikely. Example: 'He doesn't stand a chance against the world champion.'

Without proper training, the team doesn't stand a chance of winning the tournament.

The prepositional phrase 'by chance' is used as an adverbial to describe something that happened accidentally or without planning. It usually appears at the end of a sentence or between the subject and the verb. For example, 'I found this old photo by chance' or 'I by chance found this old photo.' It adds a layer of serendipity to the sentence, suggesting that the event was a pleasant surprise or a random occurrence that was not part of the original plan.

Take a chance on [someone/something]: This means to trust someone or something even though there is a risk involved. Example: 'The company decided to take a chance on the young designer.'

I know it is risky, but I am willing to take a chance on this new business idea.

In more formal or literary contexts, 'chance' can be used as a verb meaning 'to happen by accident' or 'to risk.' For example, 'It chanced that they met in the park' or 'I will chance a quick look.' However, for A2 learners, focusing on the noun forms and common idioms is much more practical. The noun 'chance' is also frequently modified by adjectives to indicate the degree of possibility, such as 'slight chance,' 'good chance,' 'fair chance,' or 'remote chance.' These modifiers help provide a clearer picture of exactly how likely an event is expected to be.

There is a slight chance that the flight will be delayed due to the heavy fog.

On the off chance: This phrase is used when you do something just in case, even though you think it is unlikely to be successful. Example: 'I called him on the off chance that he was still awake.'

I checked the lost and found office on the off chance that someone had turned in my keys.

The word 'chance' is ubiquitous in the English-speaking world, appearing in a wide variety of settings from high-stakes environments like casinos and stock markets to everyday conversations about the weather or personal plans. Because it deals with the future and uncertainty, it is a word that humans naturally gravitate toward when trying to make sense of the world. You will hear it in news broadcasts, sports commentary, movies, and even in the lyrics of popular songs. Understanding where and how it is used in these different contexts will help you recognize the subtle shifts in its meaning and tone.

Weather Forecasts: Meteorologists use 'chance' constantly to express the probability of precipitation. Phrases like 'a 40% chance of rain' or 'a slight chance of snow' are standard parts of daily life for millions of people.

The weather report says there is a good chance of sunshine throughout the entire weekend.

In the world of sports, 'chance' is used to describe scoring opportunities. A commentator might shout, 'He had a great chance to score!' when a player misses a goal. It is also used to discuss the likelihood of a team winning a championship or a game. Fans often debate their team's 'chances' in upcoming matches, using the word to weigh the strengths and weaknesses of the players. In this context, 'chance' is synonymous with 'possibility of success' and is often charged with emotion, whether it be hope or frustration.

Sports Commentary: Commentators use 'chance' to highlight missed or realized opportunities during a game. It adds drama to the narrative of the match, focusing on the 'what ifs' of the play.

That was his last chance to equalize before the referee blew the final whistle.

Business and finance are other areas where 'chance' is frequently heard. Entrepreneurs talk about taking a chance on a new market, and investors discuss the chances of a stock price rising. Here, 'chance' is closely linked to 'risk.' A 'calculated chance' is a common phrase in these circles, referring to a risk that has been carefully analyzed before being taken. In job interviews, you might hear a recruiter say, 'We’d like to give you a chance,' which means they are offering you the opportunity to prove your skills in the role.

Everyday Socializing: In casual conversation, 'chance' is used to make plans or ask for favors. 'Do you have a chance to talk?' is a polite way to see if someone is free, while 'What a chance meeting!' expresses surprise at seeing someone unexpectedly.

I didn't have a chance to say goodbye to everyone before I left the party last night.

Finally, the concept of 'chance' is central to the gaming and gambling industry. From the 'games of chance' found in casinos to the 'random chance' mechanics in modern video games (like loot boxes or critical hits), the word is used to describe systems where the outcome is determined by a random number generator or a roll of the dice. In these settings, 'chance' is the very thing that provides the excitement and the potential for reward. Whether you are a casual gamer or a serious poker player, 'chance' is the invisible force you are always trying to understand or influence.

Roulette is a game of pure chance, where the player has no control over where the ball lands.

Music and Lyrics: Many famous songs use 'chance' to talk about love and regret. Songs like 'Take a Chance on Me' by ABBA or 'Second Chance' by Shinedown use the word to explore themes of forgiveness and new beginnings.

The lyrics of the song were all about a man asking for one last chance to prove his love.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 'chance' with 'opportunity.' While they are often synonyms, they are not always interchangeable. 'Opportunity' is almost exclusively positive and implies a favorable set of circumstances for progress. 'Chance,' however, can be neutral or even negative, as it also refers to probability and risk. For example, you wouldn't say 'There is a 20% opportunity of rain,' because rain is a weather event, not a personal benefit. In that case, 'chance' is the only correct word. Understanding this nuance will help you sound more natural and precise in your communication.

Chance vs. Opportunity: Use 'opportunity' for positive situations where you can gain something. Use 'chance' for probability, luck, or when you want to sound more informal about an opportunity.

Incorrect: I have the chance of winning the lottery. (Better: I have a chance of winning... or 'There is a chance I will win...')

Another common error involves the preposition used after 'chance.' Many learners mistakenly use 'to' when they should use 'of,' or vice versa. The general rule is: use 'chance to [verb]' for an opportunity to do something, and 'chance of [noun/gerund]' for the probability of something happening. For example, 'I had a chance to go' (opportunity) versus 'There is a chance of going' (probability). Mixing these up can change the meaning of your sentence or make it sound grammatically awkward to a native speaker.

Preposition Errors: Confusing 'chance to' with 'chance of.' Remember: 'to' + base verb = opportunity; 'of' + -ing verb = probability.

Incorrect: There is a chance to rain today. (Correct: There is a chance of rain today.)

Learners also sometimes struggle with the plural form 'chances.' While 'chance' can be singular, we often use 'chances' when talking about the likelihood of success in a general sense. For instance, 'What are my chances?' is more common than 'What is my chance?' when asking about the probability of passing an exam or winning a game. However, when referring to a specific single opportunity, the singular 'chance' is required. Using the plural in the wrong place can make the speaker sound like they are talking about multiple distinct opportunities rather than a single probability.

Article Misuse: Using 'a' in fixed phrases like 'by chance' or 'on the off chance.' These are set expressions and should be learned as single units of meaning.

Incorrect: I met him by a chance. (Correct: I met him by chance.)

Finally, be careful with the verb 'stand.' The idiom is 'stand a chance,' not 'have a chance' when you are talking about the possibility of winning or succeeding against competition. While 'have a chance' is grammatically correct, 'stand a chance' is the idiomatic way native speakers express this idea. Similarly, 'take a chance' is the standard way to talk about taking a risk. Using 'make a chance' or 'do a chance' are common errors that should be avoided. Collocations—words that naturally go together—are key to mastering 'chance' and avoiding these pitfalls.

Incorrect: He doesn't have a chance against the champion. (Correct: He doesn't stand a chance...)

Verb Collocations: Using the wrong verb with 'chance.' Remember: take a chance (risk), stand a chance (possibility of success), have a chance (opportunity).

Incorrect: I will make a chance and try the new food. (Correct: I will take a chance...)

To truly master the word 'chance,' it is helpful to understand its synonyms and how they differ in meaning, tone, and usage. English is rich with words that describe possibility and opportunity, and choosing the right one can make your speech more precise and sophisticated. While 'chance' is a great all-purpose word, alternatives like 'opportunity,' 'possibility,' 'likelihood,' and 'luck' each carry their own specific connotations. By learning when to use these alternatives, you can avoid repetition and express yourself more clearly in different situations.

Opportunity: This is the most common synonym for 'chance' when referring to a favorable situation. It sounds more formal and is always positive. You have an 'opportunity' to improve, but you have a 'chance' of failing.

The internship provided a wonderful opportunity for the student to learn about the industry.

'Possibility' and 'likelihood' are the best alternatives when you are talking about the probability of an event. 'Possibility' is a binary concept—something is either possible or it isn't. 'Likelihood,' on the other hand, describes the degree of probability. You might say 'There is a possibility of rain,' but 'There is a high likelihood of rain' sounds more technical and precise. 'Chance' sits somewhere in the middle, often used in casual contexts to cover both the existence of a possibility and its degree of likelihood.

Likelihood: Used primarily in formal or scientific contexts to describe how probable an event is. It is often used with adjectives like 'high,' 'low,' or 'increased.'

There is a strong likelihood that the interest rates will rise next month.

'Luck' and 'fortune' are synonyms for 'chance' when it refers to random, often positive, events. 'Luck' is the most common and informal, while 'fortune' sounds more literary or grand. If you win the lottery, you might say it was 'pure luck' or 'a stroke of fortune.' 'Chance' is also used here, but it sounds more neutral. 'By chance' and 'by luck' mean similar things, but 'by chance' emphasizes the lack of planning, while 'by luck' emphasizes the positive nature of the outcome.

Risk: Used when the 'chance' involves potential danger or loss. It is a more serious word than 'chance' and is common in business and safety contexts.

The mountain climber knew the risks involved but decided to attempt the summit anyway.

Finally, words like 'prospect' and 'odds' are used in specific niches. 'Prospect' often refers to future possibilities, especially in a career or business sense ('job prospects'). 'Odds' is a term from gambling and statistics that refers to the ratio of the probability of an event happening to it not happening. When someone asks 'What are the odds?', they are asking for the chances of something occurring, often implying that the event is unlikely or surprising. Understanding these subtle differences will allow you to navigate English with much greater confidence and precision.

The odds of winning the grand prize are extremely low, but many people still buy tickets.

Prospect: Refers to the possibility of future success or events. It is often used in plural form ('prospects') when talking about a person's career or a company's future.

The young graduate was excited about her career prospects after receiving several job offers.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

Because 'chance' originally referred to dice, it has a long history of being associated with gambling and risk-taking, which is still reflected in idioms like 'take a chance.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tʃɑːns/

US /tʃæns/

The stress is on the only syllable: CHANCE.

Rhymes With

dance glance stance trance advance finance romance enhance

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'ch' as a 'sh' sound (like 'shance').
Making the 'a' sound too short in the UK version or too long in the US version.
Pronouncing the final 'ce' as a 'z' sound instead of an 's' sound.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'change'.
Adding an extra vowel sound at the end.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in most texts as it is a common word.

Writing 3/5

Requires care with prepositions (to vs. of) and idioms.

Speaking 3/5

Using idioms like 'by any chance' naturally takes practice.

Listening 2/5

Clearly pronounced and usually easy to catch in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

luck maybe possible time good

Learn Next

opportunity probability likelihood risk fortunate

Advanced

fortuitous serendipity contingency hazard caprice

Grammar to Know

Gerund vs. Infinitive

Chance to go (opportunity) vs. Chance of going (probability).

Fixed Idioms (No Article)

We met 'by chance' (not 'by a chance').

Zero Conditional for Probability

If there is a chance of rain, I take an umbrella.

Modal Verbs with Chance

There might be a chance that he arrives early.

Plural for General Probability

The chances are that we will be late.

Examples by Level

I have a chance to play.

Tengo una oportunidad de jugar.

Uses 'have a chance to' + verb.

Is there a chance for a snack?

¿Hay alguna posibilidad de un refrigerio?

Uses 'chance for' + noun.

Give me a chance!

¡Dame una oportunidad!

Imperative sentence using 'give'.

I met her by chance.

La conocí por casualidad.

Uses the idiom 'by chance'.

It was a lucky chance.

Fue una suerte.

Adjective 'lucky' modifies 'chance'.

We have one chance.

Tenemos una oportunidad.

Uses the number 'one' as a determiner.

No chance of rain today.

No hay posibilidad de lluvia hoy.

Negative 'no' + 'chance of' + noun.

See you by chance later!

¡Nos vemos por casualidad luego!

Informal use of 'by chance'.

There is a good chance of snow.

Hay una buena probabilidad de nieve.

'Good chance of' + noun.

I want to take a chance.

Quiero arriesgarme.

Idiom 'take a chance'.

He doesn't stand a chance.

Él no tiene ninguna posibilidad.

Idiom 'stand a chance' in the negative.

What are the chances of that?

¿Cuáles son las probabilidades de eso?

Plural 'chances' for general probability.

I had no chance to call you.

No tuve oportunidad de llamarte.

'No chance to' + verb.

Is there any chance of a discount?

¿Hay alguna posibilidad de un descuento?

Polite inquiry using 'Is there any chance of...?'

They met by chance at the mall.

Se conocieron por casualidad en el centro comercial.

Prepositional phrase 'by chance' as an adverbial.

Take a chance on this new restaurant.

Prueba este nuevo restaurante (arriésgate).

'Take a chance on' + noun.

I'm calling on the off chance that you're free.

Llamo por si acaso estás libre.

Idiom 'on the off chance'.

The chances of success are quite high.

Las probabilidades de éxito son bastante altas.

Plural 'chances' followed by 'of' + noun.

She was given a second chance to prove herself.

Se le dio una segunda oportunidad para demostrar su valía.

Passive voice 'was given' with 'second chance'.

We should leave nothing to chance during the event.

No debemos dejar nada al azar durante el evento.

Idiom 'leave nothing to chance'.

Fat chance he'll actually show up on time!

¡Qué va a aparecer a tiempo! (Sarcástico).

Sarcastic idiom 'fat chance' meaning 'no chance'.

It so chanced that we were in the same city.

Sucedió que estábamos en la misma ciudad.

Formal use of 'chance' as a verb.

The discovery was a matter of pure chance.

El descubrimiento fue cuestión de puro azar.

Abstract noun use in a formal phrase.

The poem explores the caprice of chance in human life.

El poema explora el capricho del azar en la vida humana.

Literary use of 'chance' as a philosophical concept.

He was willing to chance his entire fortune on the venture.

Estaba dispuesto a arriesgar toda su fortuna en la empresa.

Transitive verb use meaning 'to risk'.

Common Collocations

good chance

slight chance

take a chance

stand a chance

by chance

second chance

last chance

fighting chance

remote chance

give a chance

Common Phrases

by any chance

— Used to ask a question politely, especially when you are not sure of the answer.

Are you a doctor, by any chance?

on the off chance

— Doing something just in case, even if it is unlikely to work.

I went there on the off chance that she was home.

no chance

— Used to say that something is completely impossible.

No chance! I'm not doing that.

fat chance

— A sarcastic way to say that something is very unlikely to happen.

Fat chance of him helping us for free!

leave to chance

— To not plan something and let it happen randomly.

Don't leave your future to chance; make a plan.

given half a chance

— If someone had even a small opportunity, they would do something.

Given half a chance, he would move to Italy.

chance of a lifetime

— A very rare and wonderful opportunity that might not happen again.

This trip is the chance of a lifetime.

by pure chance

— Something that happened completely by accident and luck.

We found the treasure by pure chance.

stand a sporting chance

— To have a reasonable possibility of succeeding.

The new product stands a sporting chance in the market.

take no chances

— To be very careful and avoid any risks.

I'm taking no chances; I'll wear a helmet.

Often Confused With

chance vs change

Often confused due to similar spelling and sound, but 'change' means to make different.

chance vs opportunity

Similar but 'opportunity' is usually positive and formal, while 'chance' is broader.

chance vs choice

A 'choice' is a decision you make; a 'chance' is a possibility that exists.

Idioms & Expressions

"take a chance"

— To do something even though it involves a risk.

I decided to take a chance and start my own business.

neutral

"stand a chance"

— To have a possibility of success or winning.

The runner didn't stand a chance against the world record holder.

neutral

"fat chance"

— Used to say that something is very unlikely to happen.

Fat chance of me winning the lottery!

informal/sarcastic

"on the off chance"

— Because of a slight possibility that something might happen.

I called her on the off chance that she was still in town.

neutral

"leave nothing to chance"

— To plan everything very carefully so that nothing goes wrong.

The general left nothing to chance before the battle.

neutral/formal

"by any chance"

— Used in questions to be polite or tentative.

Do you have a pen I could borrow, by any chance?

neutral/polite

"given half a chance"

— If given even a slight opportunity.

Given half a chance, she'd quit her job and travel the world.

informal

"the chance of a lifetime"

— An extremely rare and valuable opportunity.

Winning the scholarship was the chance of a lifetime.

neutral

"blow your chance"

— To lose an opportunity by doing something wrong.

He blew his chance of a promotion by being late to the meeting.

informal

"eye for the main chance"

— Always looking for an opportunity to benefit oneself.

He's a businessman with a sharp eye for the main chance.

neutral/idiomatic

Easily Confused

chance vs Opportunity

Both refer to a favorable time to do something.

Opportunity is always positive and often formal. Chance can be neutral, negative, or informal, and also refers to probability.

I have the opportunity to study (positive). There is a chance of failure (negative probability).

chance vs Possibility

Both refer to things that might happen.

Possibility is more about whether something can happen at all. Chance is often about how likely it is to happen.

Is there a possibility of life on Mars? (Can it exist?) What is the chance of rain? (How likely is it?)

chance vs Likelihood

Both refer to probability.

Likelihood is more formal and technical. Chance is common in everyday speech.

The likelihood of a recession is increasing. There's a chance it might rain.

chance vs Luck

Both refer to random events.

Luck usually implies a positive or negative outcome for a person. Chance is more neutral and describes the randomness itself.

It was good luck that I won. It happened by chance.

chance vs Risk

Both involve uncertainty.

Risk specifically focuses on the possibility of something bad happening. Chance can be good or bad.

Taking a risk involves danger. Taking a chance might lead to success.

Sentence Patterns

I have a chance to [verb].

I have a chance to eat.

There is a [adj] chance of [noun].

There is a good chance of rain.

I met [person] by chance.

I met Sam by chance.

Is there any chance that [clause]?

Is there any chance that you are free?

On the off chance that [clause].

I called on the off chance that he was there.

Stand a chance of [gerund].

He stands a chance of winning.

It chanced that [clause].

It chanced that we met in Rome.

Chance [something] on [something].

He chanced his life on the rescue.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

I met him by a chance. → I met him by chance.
The idiom 'by chance' does not use an article. It is a fixed prepositional phrase.
There is a chance to rain. → There is a chance of rain.
When talking about probability, we use 'of' followed by a noun or gerund, not the infinitive.
He made a chance to win. → He took a chance to win.
The correct verb to use with a risky opportunity is 'take,' not 'make.'
I have the chance of a promotion. → I have the chance for a promotion.
While 'of' is used for probability, 'for' or 'to get' is often used when referring to a specific beneficial opportunity.
Fat chance I will go! → Fat chance of me going!
The idiom 'fat chance' is usually followed by 'of' and a gerund or a clause, and it means you definitely won't go.

Tips

Preposition Power

Always remember: 'Chance to' + Verb (Opportunity) and 'Chance of' + -ing (Probability). This is the most common mistake for learners.

Collocation King

Learn 'take a chance' and 'stand a chance' as single units. Don't say 'make a chance' or 'do a chance' as they are incorrect.

Polite Inquiries

Use 'By any chance...' to start questions when you want to be extra polite with strangers or colleagues.

Formal vs. Informal

In business emails, use 'opportunity' instead of 'chance' to sound more professional and positive.

Weather Watch

When you hear 'chance' in a weather report, it always refers to the percentage of probability, not an opportunity.

Sarcasm Alert

Be careful with 'fat chance.' It sounds like it means 'big chance,' but it actually means 'almost zero chance.'

Cultural Nuance

In the US, 'chance' is often used very broadly. In the UK, people might use 'opportunity' slightly more often in formal settings.

Dice Association

Associate 'chance' with dice. It helps you remember the meanings of luck, risk, and probability all at once.

Daily Usage

Try to identify one 'chance' (opportunity) you had today and one 'chance' (probability) you noticed, like the weather.

Variety

Don't use 'chance' three times in one paragraph. Use 'possibility' or 'likelihood' to keep your writing interesting.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'CHance' as a 'CHoice' you make when an opportunity 'CHanges' your day. The 'CH' links all three ideas together.

Visual Association

Imagine a pair of dice falling onto a table. One die shows an 'O' for Opportunity and the other shows a 'P' for Probability. This represents the two main meanings of chance.

Word Web

Opportunity Probability Risk Luck Dice Accident Possibility Fortune

Challenge

Try to use the word 'chance' in three different ways today: once for weather, once for an opportunity, and once using the phrase 'by chance'.

Word Origin

The word 'chance' comes from the Old French word 'cheance,' which means 'fall of the dice.' This French word evolved from the Vulgar Latin 'cadentia,' which means 'that which falls.'

Original meaning: The original meaning was literally the way dice fall, which led to the broader meaning of luck or fortune.

It belongs to the Indo-European language family, specifically the Italic branch via Latin and then Romance via French.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'fat chance' as it is very informal and can sound rude or dismissive if used with the wrong person.

In the UK and US, 'giving someone a second chance' is a strong cultural value related to forgiveness and rehabilitation.

The song 'Take a Chance on Me' by ABBA. The movie 'Second Chance' (various versions). The board game 'Monopoly' has 'Chance' cards that can be good or bad.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Weather

chance of rain
slight chance of snow
good chance of sun
no chance of storms

Work/Career

chance for promotion
take a chance on a hire
missed a chance
give someone a chance

Socializing

met by chance
by any chance
get a chance to talk
second chance to meet

Sports

scoring chance
stand a chance to win
last-minute chance
fighting chance

Risk/Gambling

game of chance
take a chance
leave to chance
odds and chances

Conversation Starters

"Is there any chance you could help me with this project later today?"

"Have you ever met someone famous by chance while you were out?"

"Do you think there is a good chance of a holiday this year?"

"Would you ever take a chance and move to a completely new country?"

"What do you think are the chances of technology solving climate change?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you met a friend by chance. Where were you and what happened?

If you were given a second chance to change one decision in your life, what would it be?

Write about a big chance you took in your career or education. Was it worth the risk?

Do you believe in luck, or do you think we create our own chances through hard work?

Describe the 'chance of a lifetime' for you. What would that opportunity look like?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It can be both. When it means 'opportunity,' it is countable (e.g., 'I had two chances'). When it means 'luck' or 'randomness' in an abstract way, it is uncountable (e.g., 'It was left to chance').

Use 'chance to' followed by a verb for an opportunity (e.g., 'a chance to see'). Use 'chance of' followed by a noun or gerund for probability (e.g., 'a chance of rain' or 'a chance of winning').

Yes, but it is more formal or literary. It can mean to happen by accident ('It chanced that...') or to risk something ('He chanced a look').

No, 'fat chance' is a sarcastic idiom that actually means 'no chance' or 'very unlikely.' For example, 'Fat chance of him helping!' means he definitely won't help.

It is used to make a question more polite. For example, 'Are you, by any chance, the owner of this car?' It suggests you are not sure and don't want to be too direct.

It means to have a possibility of succeeding or winning, especially in a competition. 'He doesn't stand a chance' means he will likely lose.

Not always. 'Opportunity' is better for formal writing and positive goals. 'Chance' is better for casual talk, weather, risks, and random events.

It refers to a very small possibility. If you do something 'on the off chance,' you are doing it just in case it works, even though you don't expect it to.

Yes. While an opportunity is usually good, a 'chance of failure' or 'taking a chance' (risk) can involve negative outcomes.

These are games like roulette or dice where the outcome is decided by luck rather than skill. The word 'chance' here refers to randomness.