Chancer: meaning, definitions and examples

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chancer

[ˈtʃɑːnsə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

risky behavior

A person who takes risks or engages in risky behavior, especially in the hope of a favorable outcome.

Synonyms

adventurer, gambler, risk-taker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
chancer	Used to describe someone who takes risky opportunities, often without considering the consequences or without having proper qualifications. This term can carry a negative connotation, suggesting recklessness or opportunism. He's a chancer, always trying to get ahead without a clear plan. Only a chancer would invest in such a dubious scheme.
risk-taker	Refers to someone who is willing to take risks in various aspects of life, such as business, sports, or personal decisions. It is generally a neutral term but can be seen positively when showing courage and determination. She is a risk-taker, launching her own startup despite the uncertain market. As a risk-taker, he always pushes the boundaries of his abilities.
adventurer	Refers to someone who is willing to take risks for the sake of excitement or exploration. It has a more positive tone and often implies bravery and a desire for new experiences. She is an adventurer, always traveling to new, uncharted places. The story of the adventurer captivated everyone at the party.
gambler	Describes a person who engages in gambling or someone who takes big risks, particularly in financial matters. This term can carry both neutral and negative connotations, depending on the context. He's a gambler, always betting on horse races. In business, he is known as a high-stakes gambler.

Examples of usage

He's a chancer who always bets on the underdog.
She's a chancer who loves living on the edge.
Don't be a chancer and always wear your seatbelt.
Being a chancer can sometimes lead to great success.
The chancer decided to start his own business against all odds.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

opportunistic person

A person who takes advantage of opportunities, often in a deceitful or unscrupulous way.

Synonyms

exploiter, manipulator, opportunist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
chancer	Similar to the previous description, as it's the same word repeated. The term can depict a person who takes advantage of opportunities regardless of the risks or rules. You can't trust Jack; he's a chancer and doesn't care about rules
opportunist	Refers to someone who seeks and exploits immediate opportunities, often without regard for principles or consequences. This word can be either neutral or slightly negative depending on context. As an opportunist, he quickly adapted to the changing market to make a profit
manipulator	Describes a person who skilfully and often unfairly influences others to achieve their own goals. It has a strong negative connotation. She's a master manipulator, always finding ways to twist the facts in her favor
exploiter	Used to describe someone who uses other people or situations unfairly for their own advantage. This word has a clearly negative meaning. The company was accused of being an exploiter of its workers by paying them below minimum wage

Examples of usage

He's a chancer who manipulates situations for his own benefit.
She's a chancer who will do anything to get ahead.
Be careful with chancers who may try to exploit you.
The chancer managed to secure the deal through cunning tactics.
The chancer was eventually exposed for his dishonesty.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'chancer' originated from the English gambling term 'chance', reflecting the idea of taking risks.
It became popular in the 20th century, especially in British slang, to describe someone who is opportunistically clever.
The term is often associated with a sense of humor or cunning in approaching situations.

Pop Culture

The term has appeared in songs and literature, often depicting a character who cleverly navigates tricky situations.
In the UK, a popular television show featured a character known as a 'chancer', highlighting the clever yet often sly nature of the archetype.
Many films have portrayed chancers, showing how they sometimes succeed against the odds due to their wit.

Psychology

Chancers often exhibit traits linked to risk-taking behavior, which can be both beneficial and detrimental in decision-making.
Studies show that those who take calculated risks may experience higher levels of satisfaction when achieving their goals.
The ability to take chances is often linked to a person's confidence and resilience, showcasing a complex relationship with failure.

Literature

In classic literature, chancers are often portrayed as antiheroes, using cleverness to win over challenges.
Notable authors have explored the theme of chancers, raising questions about ethics and morality in pursuing success.
Many stories illustrate the fine line between being a chancer and a scoundrel, prompting readers to consider motivations behind actions.

Business

In the business world, a chancer might take bold steps or unconventional strategies to achieve success, sometimes disregarding norms.
Many entrepreneurs are seen as chancers, willing to gamble on new ideas that could spell either triumph or failure.
Networking events often breed a culture of chancers, where individuals take risks to create opportunities.

Translations

Translations of the word "chancer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apostador

🇮🇳 जोखिम लेने वाला

🇩🇪 Risiko

🇮🇩 penjudi

🇺🇦 ризикова людина

🇵🇱 ryzykant

🇯🇵 リスクを取る人

🇫🇷 parieur

🇪🇸 apostador

🇹🇷 risk alan

🇰🇷 위험을 무릅쓰는 사람

🇸🇦 مخاطر

🇨🇿 riskant

🇸🇰 riskant

🇨🇳 冒险者

🇸🇮 tveganec

🇮🇸 áhættutakari

🇰🇿 тәуекелшіл

🇬🇪 რისკიანი

🇦🇿 risk edən

🇲🇽 apostador

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,400, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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