Definition

Noun Phrase: - A very low probability of something happening; little or no chance of success. It describes a situation where the possibility of a positive or desired outcome is minimal.

Usage

This phrase is used to express a pessimistic or realistic assessment of the likelihood of an event. It is often used with verbs like "have," "stand," or "give." - It typically functions as the object of a verb (e.g., "have a slim chance"). - It can be modified by adverbs like "very" or "extremely."

Examples

• As a direct object:
  • We have a slim chance of winning the championship this year.
  • The doctor said he stood a slim chance of full recovery.
• With modifiers:
  • There is only a very slim chance that it will rain tomorrow.
  • He was given an extremely slim chance of survival.

Advanced Usage

• "a slim to none chance": An emphatic variant meaning the chance is almost zero.
  • The chances of finding my lost ring are slim to none.
• Used in conditional or hypothetical statements to emphasize improbability.
  • If by some slim chance you see her, please give her this message.

Variants and Related Words

• Fat chance (idiom, informal): Ironically means no chance at all. (e.g., )
• Slight chance: A very similar phrase meaning a small possibility.
• Remote possibility: A more formal synonym.
• Long shot: (noun) An attempt or candidate with a very low probability of success.

Synonyms

• Little chance
• Remote chance
• Faint hope
• Poor prospect

Antonyms

• Strong chance
• High probability
• Good chance
• Likelihood

Related Idioms

• A snowball's chance in hell: (idiom) Means no chance whatsoever.
  • He has a snowball's chance in hell of getting that promotion.
• Not a hope in hell: (idiom) Means absolutely no hope.
  • There's not a hope in hell we'll arrive on time in this traffic.

Noun

1. little or no chance of success