Chance

Definition

Chance is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the occurrence of events without apparent cause, luck, or the likelihood of something happening. As a verb, it means to happen by accident or to attempt something despite the risk.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃæns/
• Respelling: chans

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃɑːns/
• Respelling: chahns

Etymology

The word "chance" originates from the Old French "cheance" or "cheance," meaning "accident or occurrence," derived from the Latin "cadentia," meaning "falling" (from "cadere," to fall). In Middle English, it evolved to mean luck or likelihood.

Derivatives

• Chancy (adjective)
• Chancer (noun)
• By chance (phrase)
• Chanceful (adjective)
• Chanceless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Opportunity
• Possibility
• Luck

Antonyms

• Certainty
• Plan
• Design

Usage

The term "chance" is used to indicate the possibility of an event occurring or the randomness of events. For example, "She took a chance and applied for the job," or "There’s a good chance it will rain today."

Related Terms

• Probability: The measure of the likelihood of an event happening.
• Risk: The exposure to chance or uncertainty.
• Luck: Success or failure brought by chance rather than through one's actions.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The occurrence of events without apparent cause or plan: Refers to events that happen unpredictably or due to luck.
  • Example: "Meeting her at the airport was a matter of chance."
• The likelihood of something happening: Indicates the probability or possibility of an event occurring.
  • Example: "There is a 50% chance of rain tomorrow."
• An opportunity or prospect: Refers to an opportunity to do something or achieve a goal.
  • Example: "She took the chance to study abroad."

Verb

• To happen by accident: Refers to an event occurring unexpectedly or without intention.
  • Example: "It chanced that they were in the same city."
• To attempt despite the risk: Refers to taking a risk or attempting something with uncertain results.
  • Example: "She decided to chance the journey despite the weather."