stand a chance


stand a chance

To have a possibility, however remote, of succeeding; to possibly be able to do something. Often used in the negative to mean the opposite. If we could just get an interception, we might stand a chance of winning this game. If that road is closed, we don't stand a chance of making it on time.See also: chance, stand

stand a chance (of doing something)

to have a chance of doing something. Do you think I stand a chance of winning first place? Everyone stands a chance of catching the disease.See also: chance, stand

stand a chance

Have a possibility or a hope of success, as in Do you think Mary stands a chance of finishing the marathon? or I think we stand a fair chance of seeing the Queen arrive at Buckingham Palace. This idiom was first recorded in 1796. Also see not have an earthly chance. See also: chance, stand

stand a chance

COMMON1. If someone or something stands a chance, it is possible that they will succeed. Nathan realised that their marriage hadn't stood a chance. I obviously did stand a chance, because before too long Geoff asked me to dance and we spent the rest of the evening together.2. If someone or something does not stand a chance, they are certain to be killed, destroyed or defeated. The car exploded. She didn't stand a chance.See also: chance, stand

(not) stand a chance (of doing something)

(not) have a chance (of doing something): You stand a very good chance of winning the prize. ♢ He doesn’t stand a chance with her (= she won’t want to have a relationship with him).See also: chance, stand

stand a chance

To have a chance, as of gaining or accomplishing something.See also: chance, stand