Chances Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chances
[ˈtʃɑːnsɪz ]
Definitions
in probability
Chances refer to the likelihood of something happening. It is a measure of the probability of a particular event occurring. Chances can be expressed as a percentage, a fraction, or in odds.
Synonyms
likelihood, odds, probability.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chances |
Often used in casual or everyday conversations to refer to the possibility of something happening.
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| probability |
Commonly used in mathematical, scientific, or technical settings to describe the quantifiable likelihood of an event occurring.
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| likelihood |
Used in formal or scientific contexts to talk about the probability of something happening.
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| odds |
Often used in situations involving betting, gambling, or to describe the ratio of success versus failure.
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Examples of usage
- The chances of winning the lottery are very slim.
- There is a high chance of rain tomorrow.
- She took a chance and applied for the job.
opportunity
Chances can also refer to an opportunity or possibility for something to happen. It represents a favorable set of circumstances that could lead to a positive outcome.
Synonyms
opening, opportunity, possibility.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chances |
Use 'chances' when discussing the probability or likelihood of something happening. It often implies uncertainty.
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| opportunity |
Use 'opportunity' when referring to a favorable situation or set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something. It usually has a positive connotation.
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| possibility |
Use 'possibility' when talking about something that might happen or be true, without implying probability. It can be neutral, positive, or negative.
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| opening |
Use 'opening' when referring to a vacant position or a job role that is available. It can also refer to an initial part of something or an opportunity that makes something possible.
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Examples of usage
- He missed his chance to study abroad.
- Don't miss your chance to make a good impression.
risk
As a verb, to chance means to take a risk or gamble on something. It implies taking a leap of faith or making a decision without certainty of the outcome.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| risk |
Refers to exposing someone or something valuable to danger, harm, or loss. Can be used in both personal and professional contexts.
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| gamble |
Implies taking a risk with an uncertain outcome, often linked to betting money or making a high-risk decision. Has a slightly negative connotation because of its association with betting.
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| venture |
Used to describe a risky or daring journey, project, or investment. Often linked to entrepreneurial or exploratory activities.
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Examples of usage
- She chanced a glance at the mysterious figure.
- He chanced his luck by investing in the stock market.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies indicate that humans often underestimate favorable outcomes, leading to risk aversion.
- Risk-taking can stimulate dopamine release in the brain, making chances attractive to some.
- The 'Gambler's Fallacy' makes people incorrectly believe that past events affect future chances, such as believing a losing streak will change.
Statistics
- In statistics, 'chance' relates to probability, measuring how likely an event is to occur.
- Common concepts like the '50/50 chance' help simplify the understanding of probabilities.
- In gambling, players often calculate their chances using odds, which can be expressed in various formats such as fractions, decimals, or percentages.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'take a chance' is common in songs, encouraging people to embrace uncertainty in love and life.
- Movies often explore themes of chance, showing characters making fateful decisions that change their lives forever.
- Games of chance, like dice games or roulette, have fascinated people for centuries, making them popular in entertainment.
Philosophy
- Philosophical debates about determinism vs. chance explore whether our lives follow a predetermined path or if randomness plays a role.
- The concept of chance has been significant in existential discussions regarding free will and the unpredictability of events.
- Some philosophers argue that embracing chance can lead to a more fulfilling life, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity.
Origin of 'chances'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'chance' comes from the Latin 'cadentia', meaning falling, highlighting uncertainty.
- In Medieval Latin, it evolved to denote luck or fortune, showing how it relates to unexpected outcomes.
- By the 14th century, it was commonly used to describe occurrences that seemed random or based on luck.
The word 'chances' originated from the Middle English word 'chaunce', which came from the Old French word 'cheance', meaning 'event, fortune, luck'. It has evolved over time to encompass various meanings related to probability, opportunity, and risk.