Definition

1. Verb (intransitive):
   • To accept the possibility of failure or loss in order to try to achieve a desired result: To act while acknowledging uncertainty and potential negative consequences, hoping for a positive outcome.

Usage

• This verb phrase is used to describe an action where the outcome is uncertain and involves risk. It implies a deliberate decision to proceed despite the risk.
• It is often followed by an infinitive ("to" + verb) or used with a prepositional phrase beginning with "on" to specify the risked action or opportunity.
• Common Structures:
  • take a chance (by itself)
  • take a chance on [something/someone]
  • take a chance to do [something]

Examples

• Verb:
  • I decided to take a chance and apply for the job, even though I didn't meet all the qualifications.
  • The investor was willing to take a chance on the new startup company.
  • She took a chance to travel the world before starting university.

Advanced Usage

• "to take a chance on life/love": To embrace uncertainty in fundamental aspects of existence or relationships.
  • After his recovery, he vowed to take a chance on life and pursue his dreams.
• "nothing ventured, nothing gained": This idiom encapsulates the philosophy behind choosing to "take a chance."

Variants and Related Words

• Take chances (verb phrase, plural): To behave in a habitually risky manner.
  • He takes too many chances when he drives.
• Chance (noun): The unknown and unpredictable element of an outcome; an opportunity.
• Risk (verb/noun): To expose to danger or loss; the possibility of such danger or loss.

Synonyms

• Gamble: To play games of chance for money; to take risky action in the hope of a desired result.
• Risk it: To accept the possibility of a bad outcome.
• Try one's luck: To attempt something with an uncertain outcome.

Related Phrasal Verbs / Phrases

• Take a risk: Very similar in meaning, often used interchangeably. "Risk" can sometimes imply a more quantifiable or serious potential loss.
  • Starting your own business means you have to be prepared to take a risk.
• Chance it (informal): To decide to do something despite the risk.
  • The weather looks bad, but let's chance it and go for a hike anyway.

Related Idioms

• Throw caution to the wind: To stop being careful and act in a reckless way.
  • He threw caution to the wind, quit his job, and moved to Paris.
• Go out on a limb: To put yourself in a risky or vulnerable position to support someone or something.
  • I'm going out on a limb to recommend him for the position.

Verb

1. take a risk in the hope of a favorable outcome
   • When you buy these stocks you are gambling