Stand a Chance – Meaning and Examples
When you try to achieve something difficult, you might wonder about your possibility of success. In English, we talk about whether you stand a chance of winning, succeeding, or achieving your goal. This idiom is very common in competitive situations and daily challenges.
What Does “To Stand a Chance” Mean?
“To stand a chance” means to have a possibility of success or victory. Think of it like being in a race—if you’re close to the front runners, you stand a chance of winning. It is not about physically standing. It is about having a realistic opportunity to achieve something.
When to Use It
You can use this idiom in sports when discussing who might win. Use it in job applications when considering your qualifications. Use it in competitions, exams, or any situation where success is uncertain. It is a neutral phrase, suitable for both casual and formal conversations.
Example Sentences
- Do you think our team stands a chance of winning the championship?
- With your excellent grades, you stand a good chance of getting into that university.
- Without proper preparation, we don’t stand a chance of passing the exam.
- The small company didn’t stand a chance against the giant corporation.
Mini Dialogue
Mike: “I’m thinking of applying for the manager position.”
Lisa: “With your experience, you definitely stand a chance of getting it!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, this idiom is about probability of success. It is not about physical positioning or waiting.
❌ Don’t say: “I will stand a chance in line for tickets.” (Use “stand in line” instead).
✅ Do say: “If we practice every day, we stand a chance of winning the tournament.”
Practice Tip
Think about a goal you have. Ask yourself: “Do I stand a chance of achieving this?” Then list what would improve your chances. This helps you practice the idiom in a personal context.
Final Note
You now understand how to use “to stand a chance” when discussing possibilities of success. It’s a practical phrase for evaluating opportunities and challenges. Use it to talk about your own goals or others’ prospects, and you’ll sound like a native English speaker!