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Odds Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽฒ
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odds

[ษ’dz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

betting

The ratio between the amounts staked by the parties to a bet, based on the expected probability either way.

Synonyms

chances, likelihood, probability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
odds

Used when discussing the ratio of probability, often in gambling or risk situations. 'Odds' can imply a more calculated or numerical chance.

  • The odds of winning the lottery are very low.
  • What are the odds of it raining today?
chances

Applies to general opportunities or possibilities. It is more casual and less formal than 'likelihood' or 'probability'.

  • There are good chances that she will come to the party.
  • What are my chances of getting the job?
likelihood

Used when discussing the probability of something happening in a more formal and serious context.

  • The likelihood of an earthquake in this region is moderate.
  • There is a high likelihood that the event will be canceled.
probability

Typically used in scientific, mathematical, or statistical contexts to express the degree to which something is probable.

  • The probability of flipping a coin and getting heads is 50%.
  • They calculated the probability of success using complex algorithms.

Examples of usage

  • The odds on the favorite were 2-1.
  • At odds of 5-1, the horse was a good bet.
Context #2 | Noun

probability

The likelihood of a specified outcome.

Synonyms

chance, likelihood, probability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
odds

Often used in gambling or risk assessment contexts to express the ratio of probabilities for and against an event happening.

  • The odds of winning the lottery are very low
  • What are the odds that it will rain today?
probability

Used in scientific, mathematical or technical contexts to quantify the likelihood of an event occurring, often expressed as a percentage or fraction.

  • The probability of rolling a six on a die is 1/6
  • Researchers are calculating the probability of a new planet being discovered
chance

Used in everyday conversation to express the possibility of something happening, often without a formal calculation.

  • There is a good chance we will meet at the festival
  • What are the chances of finding a lost wallet?
likelihood

Used in more formal or academic contexts to indicate how probable something is based on evidence or analysis.

  • The likelihood of success increases with practice
  • There is a high likelihood that the economy will improve

Examples of usage

  • The odds of winning the lottery are very low.
  • What are the odds of it raining tomorrow?
Context #3 | Noun

disagreement

A point at which the difference of opinion among those involved in a decision or dispute can be resolved.

Synonyms

conflict, disagreement, dispute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
odds

Used to describe the probability or likelihood of something happening, often in a gambling context. It is also used to describe a difference or disagreement between people, but it is less intense than a 'conflict' or 'dispute'.

  • The odds of winning the jackpot are very low.
  • They were at odds over the best strategy to take.
disagreement

Describes a situation where people have different opinions but does not necessarily involve strong emotions or actions. It is less intense than 'conflict' and is often used in everyday situations.

  • They had a disagreement about where to go for dinner.
  • There was a minor disagreement in the meeting, but they resolved it quickly.
conflict

Refers to a serious disagreement or argument, often involving prolonged struggle or difficulty. It can be used in personal, professional, or international contexts and usually involves strong emotions or actions.

  • The conflict between the two countries lasted for years.
  • There was a conflict of interest in the business deal, which made negotiations difficult.
dispute

Used to describe a serious disagreement, often involving public argument or legal proceedings. It indicates a stronger and more formal disagreement compared to a 'disagreement'.

  • The companies entered into a legal dispute over the patent.
  • There was a dispute among the neighbors about the property line.

Examples of usage

  • They were at odds over how to proceed with the project.
  • The two parties finally settled their odds.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, odds can refer to a ratio comparing the likelihood of an event occurring versus it not occurring.
  • Odds are often expressed in two forms: fractional (like 2:1) or decimal (like 3.0), making it easier for people to understand chances.
  • In probability theory, if you have '1 in 4 odds,' it means thereโ€™s a 25% likelihood of the event happening.

Gambling Culture

  • Betting odds help gamblers understand how much they can win compared to their bet, being key in sports and casino games.
  • The format of odds varies globally, such as fractional odds in the UK and moneyline odds in the US.
  • Understanding odds is essential for determining risk; higher odds suggest a less likely event, while lower odds suggest a more likely win.

Psychology

  • People often misjudge odds due to cognitive biases, such as overestimating the likelihood of rare events (like winning the lottery).
  • Research shows that the way odds are presented can influence decision-making processes dramatically.
  • Understanding odds can enhance critical thinking, helping individuals make better-informed decisions in uncertain situations.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'odds' is frequently used in popular media, especially in movies and TV shows focused on gambling or competitive sports.
  • Songs and novels often reference 'beating the odds' as a theme of perseverance and triumph against challenges.
  • In gaming, odds impact narratives; players often face challenges with various risks and reward systems woven into the story.

Origin of 'odds'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from Old English 'odds', meaning 'excess' or 'surplus', hinting at the idea of something being not straightforward.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to mean the ratio of successes to failures in events or games.
  • The phrase 'against the odds' means to succeed despite difficulties, showing how the term has broadened in use.

The word 'odds' originated from Middle English 'oddes', meaning 'inequality' or 'difference', which came from Old Norse 'oddask', meaning 'to differ' or 'to separate'. Over time, the term evolved to be associated with betting and probability, reflecting the concept of unequal chances. Today, 'odds' is commonly used in various contexts to denote probability, likelihood, and disagreements.

See also: odd, oddball, oddities, oddity, oddly, oddness.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,924 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.