Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Chanced Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ€
Add to dictionary

chanced

[tสƒรฆnst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

unexpected event

The word 'chanced' is the simple past tense of the verb 'chance,' which means to happen in a way that is not planned or expected. It often refers to instances of luck or randomness in events. When something chanced, it implies that it occurred by fortune rather than by deliberate action or design. The usage of 'chanced' can often denote serendipity or fortuitous encounters.

Synonyms

fell upon, happened, happened by chance, occurred.

Examples of usage

  • She chanced upon an old friend at the market.
  • They chanced a meeting without prior arrangements.
  • He chanced his luck on the lottery.
  • We chanced on a beautiful path while hiking.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In literature, themes of chance often appear in stories like Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet', highlighting how random events can change lives.
  • Movies like 'Sliding Doors' explore how chance moments can lead to entirely different life paths.
  • The phrase 'chance encounter' is often used in romance novels to describe unexpected meetings that lead to relationships.

Psychology

  • Studies show people often attribute success to 'chance' when they feel they have no control over outcomes.
  • The psychology of luck suggests that individuals who believe they are 'lucky' may be more open to opportunities.
  • Cognitive biases, such as the 'gambler's fallacy', can influence perceptions of chance and risk.

History

  • Throughout history, chance has played a significant role in major discoveries, like Alexander Flemingโ€™s accidental discovery of penicillin.
  • Many wars and historical events have been decided by chances, such as unforeseen weather changes that altered battle outcomes.
  • Challenging historical events often show how chance encounters between people can have long-lasting impacts.

Science

  • In quantum physics, events are often described as random occurrences, reflecting the inherent unpredictability of the universe.
  • The concept of 'chaos theory' explains how small changes can lead to vastly different outcomes, highlighting the nature of chance.
  • In genetic mutation, random changes in DNA can lead to evolution, showcasing how chance affects biological processes.

Origin of 'chanced'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'chancer', meaning 'to happen' or 'to take a risk'.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved from 'chance' related to fortune and luck.
  • The root of the word can also be traced back to the Latin 'cadere', meaning 'to fall', as in falling into a situation.

The word 'chance' is derived from the Latin 'cadere,' meaning 'to fall.' It evolved through the Old French 'cheance,' which means 'fortune, luck, or accident.' The term started to be employed in English around the late 14th century, where it acquired the meaning of a possible outcome or a situation that occurs unpredictably. By the late 15th century, it had developed a broader usage to include both favorable and unfavorable occurrences. The verb form 'to chance' emerged, reflecting the concept of encountering or happening upon something fortuitously. The word 'chanced,' therefore, encapsulates the evolution of chance as a descriptor of luck, randomness, and occurrences beyond one's control.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,832, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.