Definition

Noun: 1. A situation where two possible outcomes are equally likely: "even chance" refers to a circumstance where the probability of something happening is exactly the same as the probability of it not happening. It implies a 50/50 probability or complete uncertainty between two alternatives.

Usage

• "Even chance" is used to describe scenarios of complete uncertainty or equal probability.
• It often functions as a predicate noun after verbs like "be," "have," or "stand."
• It is a singular, countable noun.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "to be/have/stand an even chance": This is the most common construction, used to state that a particular outcome is as likely as its opposite.
  • The new startup has an even chance of succeeding or failing in its first year.

Variants and Related Words

• Toss-up (noun): A situation where two outcomes are equally likely; a synonym often used in informal contexts.
  • It's a toss-up between the blue shirt and the red one.
• Fifty-fifty (adjective/adverb): Divided or shared equally.
  • They have a fifty-fifty partnership. (Adjective)
  • The profits were split fifty-fifty. (Adverb)

Synonyms

• Toss-up: An even chance, especially when deciding between two options.
• Dead heat: A close contest where competitors are level (often in racing, but used metaphorically).
• Standoff: A situation in which neither side gains an advantage.

Related Idioms

• "A coin toss/flip": Literally, the act of flipping a coin to decide something, representing a perfect even chance.
  • Choosing the restaurant was a coin toss.
• "Six of one, half a dozen of the other": An idiom meaning the alternatives are essentially the same; there is no real difference or advantage.
  • Taking the highway or the back roads is six of one, half a dozen of the other; the travel time is the same.

Noun

1. an unpredictable phenomenon
   • it's a toss-up whether he will win or lose