slim chance
Học thuậtThân thiện
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.