chance

Definitions

1. noun

   An opportunity to do something.

   Examples

   • We had the chance to meet the president.
   • This is your last chance to apply.
2. noun

   Luck, or things that happen without a plan.

   Examples

   • Why leave it to chance when a few steps will make sure of it?
   • My life seems ruled by blind chance.
   ≈fortune≈hap≈adventure≈accident≈casualty +9 more
3. noun

   How likely it is that something will happen.

   Examples

   • There is a thirty percent chance of rain tomorrow.
   • There is little chance that we will win.
4. noun

   The odds that something will happen, said in the plural.

   Examples

   • The chances are that he will be late again.
   • If the wound gets infected, the chances of recovery drop.
   ≈eventuality≈chance≈contingency≈contingent≈eventuality +2 more
5. noun

   In old use, what happens to a person; fate.

   Examples

   • An unforeseen chance ruined the whole plan.
   • Poor wanderer, what a heavy chance is yours.
   ≈destiny≈doom≈chance≈destin≈destiny +16 more
6. adjective

   Happening by accident.

   Examples

   • We had a chance meeting on the train.
   • Not even a chance passer by was in the street.
7. adverb

   In old or informal use, perhaps.

   Examples

   • Chance you might see her at the market.
   • Chance we will finish before dark.
8. verb

   To happen by accident.

   Examples

   • It chanced that I found a solution the next day.
   • It chanced that we were both at the station.
9. verb

   In old use, to happen to someone.

   Examples

   • Whatever chances to him, he takes it calmly.
   • No harm shall chance to you while I am here.
10. verb

    To take a risk.

    Examples

    • Shall we take an umbrella or chance the rain?
    • He likes to chance it in the stock market.
    ≈test