a distinct chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or probability of a particular outcome occurring. Example: "There is a distinct chance that we will win the championship this year, given our team's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

In that event there would be a distinct chance of Clermont hosting Munster and Toulon entertaining Leinster.

The Guardian - Sport

From JCR's point of view, the proposals remain as live today as they were nearly two years ago, and there is still a distinct chance that next month's King George will be one of the last at Kempton.

The Guardian - Sport

Though he is technically a rookie, the 35-year-old Takahashi is one of the only Mets who can become a free agent on Oct. 31, and there is a distinct chance he may end up elsewhere in 2011.

The New York Times - Sports

Officials for the archdiocese said that based on a report commissioned a few years ago, there was a distinct chance that the school could ultimately merge with other Catholic high schools in the area, including St . Maryand St. Anthony, both in Jersey City, and St.

The New York Times

And it has plenty of experience in growing through acquisitions: David Lewis of Morgan Stanley reckons it has spent more than $50 billion on takeovers since 1993.There is a distinct chance, however, that the Synthes deal becomes a dangerous distraction.

The Economist

Facebook is taking baby steps with Instant Personalization, and for good reason — even without press and privacy advocates raising red flags about the issues here, there's a distinct chance that people will totally freak out when they arrive at a site and it already knows who their friends are.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

But with the distinct chance that ether, which had early on been purchased by a relatively small group of people, might be deemed a security, the companies were among countless others that were slowly building related products in the background, while waiting for additional clarity.

Forbes

The British decision to put the new constitution to the vote raises the distinct chance that it will never be ratified.

The Economist

For Mr. Bush, the meeting has a distinct upside: the chance to take the edge off his unpopularity.

The New York Times

In a lacklustre game, typical of two sides ensconced in mid-table, there was a distinct lack of clear chances as defences dominated and a lack of quality epitomised the game.

BBC

He said the transition could give Montgomery a chance to carve a distinct path.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a distinct chance" to emphasize that the possibility being discussed is noticeable and not easily overlooked. This is especially effective when you want to highlight that something is more than just a remote possibility.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct chance" when the actual probability is very low. This phrase implies a noticeable likelihood, and overusing it can weaken your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct chance" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It highlights the existence of a noticeable possibility. Examples from Ludwig show this phrase describing potential outcomes in sports, business, and personal situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a distinct chance" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that signifies a noticeable possibility. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct for use in writing to express a non-negligible prospect. While not as common as other phrases expressing probability, it is suitable for neutral contexts such as news, science, and business. When using this phrase, it is important to ensure that the possibility being described is indeed more than just remote, to avoid overstating the likelihood. Alternatives such as "a notable chance" or "a considerable possibility" can be considered for subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a notable chance

Focuses on the significance or remarkability of the chance.

a considerable possibility

Highlights the substantial degree of possibility.

a significant likelihood

Emphasizes the importance or impact of the likelihood.

a strong probability

Indicates a high degree of probability.

a real prospect

Suggests a tangible and realistic possibility.

a definite potential

Points to a clear and present potential for something to occur.

a plausible scenario

Frames the chance as a believable or realistic sequence of events.

a credible opportunity

Highlights the trustworthiness and viability of the opportunity.

a realistic expectation

Sets a practical and achievable expectation.

a reasonable hope

Expresses a moderate and justified hope.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct chance" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinct chance" to express that there is a notable possibility of something happening. For example, "There is "a distinct chance" that the project will be completed on time if we continue at this pace."

What's a more formal alternative to "a distinct chance"?

In formal writing, you could use "a considerable possibility" or "a significant likelihood" as alternatives to "a distinct chance". These phrases convey a similar meaning but are generally perceived as more formal.

Is there a difference between "a distinct chance" and "a distinct possibility"?

The phrases "a distinct chance" and "a distinct possibility" are very similar and often interchangeable. However, "chance" might imply a slightly more random or uncontrolled element, while "possibility" suggests something that could happen under the right conditions.

When is it appropriate to use "a distinct chance" in writing?

Use "a distinct chance" when you want to emphasize that the possibility you're discussing is noteworthy and should be taken seriously. It is best used when the chance is more than just theoretical but not yet a certainty.