Chance: meaning, definitions and examples

Also 'chance' can be used to talk about the possibility of something happening by luck or accident.

• I met her by chance at the supermarket.
• Is there any chance you could help me with this?

Use 'opportunity' when talking about a favorable set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something.

• She missed the opportunity to go on the trip.
• This job offers a great opportunity for career growth.

Use 'possibility' to discuss something that might happen or be true, often emphasizing its potential rather than its probability.

• There is a possibility that we will move to a new city.
• One possibility is that the project will be delayed.

Use 'likelihood' when discussing the probability of something happening, often in more formal contexts.

• The likelihood of a successful mission is very high.
• Scientists are studying the likelihood of another earthquake.

Used in casual or everyday conversation to refer to the possibility of something happening, often without a calculated measure.

• There is a chance it might rain tomorrow.
• Do you think there's any chance we'll win the game?

Used in scientific, statistical, or mathematical contexts to express the quantifiable likelihood of an event occurring.

• The probability of rolling a six on a die is one in six.
• We need to calculate the probability of various outcomes.

Used in more formal settings to discuss the probability of an event occurring, often based on evidence or statistics.

• The likelihood of finding life on other planets is still being studied.
• Given the current trends, there is a high likelihood of success.

Commonly used in gambling or betting contexts to describe the ratio of chances or the likelihood of a particular outcome.

• The odds of winning the lottery are very low.
• What are the odds that he will finish the race first?

Use when talking about the possibility of something happening, often positive or neutral.

• There's a good chance it will rain tomorrow.
• Take a chance and apply for the job.

Refer to this when speaking about the possibility of a negative outcome or danger. It often involves weighing the potential losses.

• Driving without a seatbelt is a significant risk.
• She took a risk by starting her own company.

Use this to talk about a new activity, project, or business that involves some risk but is done with a positive outlook.

• They started a new venture in the tech industry.
• Our latest venture is opening a coffee shop in the city center.

Apply this word when talking about taking a risky action with no guarantee of success, often related to betting or uncertain outcomes. This term can have a negative connotation as it suggests irresponsibility.

• Investing all your money in one stock is a big gamble.
• He decided to gamble on the new business idea.