a significant chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or probability of an event occurring, often in contexts such as risk assessment or decision-making. Example: "There is a significant chance that the project will be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, there is a significant chance of failure.

The Guardian

There was a a significant chance of failure.

The Guardian

"They may be deterred by a significant chance of failure".

The New York Times

On the other hand, there's a significant chance of another government shutdown in January.

University of California, Berkeley

"It won't be the final chance but it will be a significant chance," Brailsford added.

The Guardian - Sport

For posting this, there is a significant chance that my account will be blocked.

The New Yorker

"There would be a significant chance that they would ask us to think again.

The Guardian

If we don't rest him right now there is a significant chance he will break down.

The Guardian - Sport

Prosecutors said there was a significant chance he might abscond if granted bail.

The Economist

The Nation's awareness of an objection that has a significant chance of being adjudged unfounded cannot amount to bad faith.

Cornell University

However, we think there is a significant chance that someone will try it in the years to come.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a significant chance" to convey a notable possibility or risk, ensuring the context clearly indicates whether the chance is positive or negative. For increased clarity, quantify the chance if possible (e.g., "a 75% chance").

Common error

Avoid using "a significant chance" when the outcome is near certain. Use stronger terms like "inevitable" or "guaranteed" if the likelihood approaches 100%. Conversely, do not use it when the possibility is negligible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant chance" functions as a noun phrase that modifies an implied verb of being (e.g., "there is"). It indicates that there is a notable probability or possibility of something occurring. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically sound and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

28%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a significant chance" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a notable possibility or risk. Ludwig AI indicates its usability in written English for assessing likelihood in various scenarios. While versatile, it's important to be mindful of context; overstating certainty or using it when the possibility is negligible can be misleading. Related phrases like "a considerable possibility" or "a substantial likelihood" offer nuanced alternatives, and quantifying the chance with a percentage enhances precision. This phrase is commonly found in news, academic, and scientific writing, reflecting its neutral to professional register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable possibility

Emphasizes the extent or degree of the possibility.

a notable probability

Highlights that the probability is worthy of attention or notice.

a substantial likelihood

Focuses on the solid basis or evidence supporting the likelihood.

a marked prospect

Implies the prospect is easily observed or clearly defined.

a definite advantage

Shifts focus from chance to a clear benefit or positive outcome.

a decided opportunity

Indicates a clear and unambiguous chance to do something.

a distinct threat

Emphasizes the potential negative outcome or danger.

a tangible risk

Focuses on the concrete and measurable nature of the risk.

a realistic expectation

Suggests the chance is based on a practical assessment of the situation.

an important option

Highlights the option is valuable or influential.

FAQs

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

Use "a significant chance" to indicate that something is reasonably likely to occur. For example: "There is "a significant chance" that the meeting will be postponed."

What are some alternatives to "a significant chance"?

You can use alternatives such as "a considerable possibility", "a notable probability", or "a substantial likelihood" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to quantify "a significant chance" with a percentage?

Quantifying the chance with a percentage (e.g., "a 60% chance") can provide greater clarity and precision compared to using the qualitative term ""a significant chance"" alone.

When should I avoid using "a significant chance"?

Avoid using ""a significant chance"" if the likelihood is very low or nearly certain. In those cases, consider using terms like "unlikely" or "almost guaranteed", respectively.