a happy chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a happy chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a fortunate or serendipitous occurrence that leads to a positive outcome. Example: "It was a happy chance that I found the book I had been searching for in the library."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

By a happy chance, he finds someone with a comparable hunger.

The New Yorker

By a happy chance her farewell to the big screen utilised those attributes.

The Guardian - Film

He got such intense pleasure from his work that success was always more a happy chance than a planned outcome.

The Guardian

If the first attribute presented both a complication and a happy chance to gossip, the second and third were perceived as failings.

The New Yorker

Will the public shrug off the loss of the golden age and decide that it was just a happy chance and not worth fighting for?

The Guardian

Ms. Silverstone, whose Broadway debut came in the dreary stage adaptation of "The Graduate," gets a happy chance at redemption in a tricky role to which she brings warmth, actorly intelligence and delicate humor.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

So the idea of Mr Obama descending into the arena and grubbing for votes is a rather alien one.By happy chance, I was in a bar not far from the White House this evening surrounded by busy, besuited Washington types supping Yuenglings and scoffing sushi and burgers (though not together)—when my dining companion, an old friend, suddenly pointed to the giant television high in one corner.

The Economist

But ham radio gave him friends round the world including, by happy chance, a tailor in his home town of Burton-on-Trent Burton-on-Trent Burton-on-Trent

The Economist

By happy chance, an outfit called the Independent Cinema Office ICOO) is just about to offer British audiences a major chance to broaden their perspectives and - possibly - change their minds about what makes for a good night at the pictures.

The Guardian - Film

By happy chance, the local Aviva Premiership team plays in a very similar kit to Japan - cherry and white hoops.

The Guardian - Sport

But lo! What happy chance!

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a happy chance" with vivid descriptions of the surrounding situation to enhance the reader's engagement and create a sense of wonder or delight.

Common error

Avoid using "a happy chance" to describe events that were the result of careful planning or strategic action. It's best reserved for situations where luck played a significant role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a happy chance" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or adverbial modifier to describe a fortunate or serendipitous event. It highlights the role of luck or unforeseen circumstances in a positive outcome. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a happy chance" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that describes a fortunate or serendipitous event. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not exceptionally common, its usage is consistent across various reputable sources, primarily within news and media. Alternative phrases like ""a fortunate coincidence"" or ""a stroke of luck"" offer similar meanings, enriching the expressiveness. When using "a happy chance", it's essential to reserve it for situations where luck truly played a pivotal role, rather than planned actions. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, adding a touch of serendipity to your narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fortunate coincidence

Emphasizes the accidental and lucky nature of the event.

a stroke of luck

Highlights the role of luck in the positive outcome.

a lucky break

Suggests an unexpected opportunity arose favorably.

a serendipitous event

Focuses on the fortunate discovery made by chance.

a providential occurrence

Implies divine intervention or fate in the positive event.

a piece of good fortune

Highlights the positive nature and luck involved.

a windfall

Suggests an unexpected and significant benefit.

an auspicious moment

Highlights the favorable timing and potential for success.

a fortuitous circumstance

Emphasizes the accidental and beneficial nature of the situation.

a godsend

Implies that something was needed at a specific period and came about through divine intervention.

FAQs

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

"A happy chance" is used to describe a fortunate or serendipitous event. For example, "By "a happy chance", I ran into an old friend at the airport".

What's a good alternative to "a happy chance"?

Alternatives include "a fortunate coincidence", "a stroke of luck", or "a lucky break".

Is it grammatically correct to say "a happy chance"?

Yes, "a happy chance" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to describe a positive event resulting from luck or unforeseen circumstances. Ludwig AI also confirms that this phrase is correct.

What kind of situations are best described as "a happy chance"?

"A happy chance" is best used for situations where the outcome was positive and largely due to luck or unforeseen circumstances rather than deliberate planning.