a smaller chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smaller chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing probabilities or likelihoods of different events or outcomes. Example: "Given the new evidence, there is a smaller chance of winning the case than we initially thought."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's like a real canoe, but with a smaller chance of drowning.

The New Yorker

Nothing was guaranteed, except that there was a smaller chance there would be lower-leg injuries.

The New York Times - Sports

They also have a smaller chance of making a full recovery.

The Guardian

Patients who don't have the signature would have fewer such cancer stem cells and therefore a smaller chance of recurrence.

Columbia University

Further, the eurozone context is very different in ways that would suggest a smaller chance of success.

The Guardian - Business

Headsets and hand-held computerized pads mean less running around, fewer clerks, softer voices, a smaller chance for error.

The New York Times

"Money attracts money, and new labs may have a smaller chance to acquire additional funding," he says.

Nature

In any investment there is a chance that returns will turn out lower than expected, and generally a smaller chance that they will be far lower than expected.

Harvard University

Other immediate benefits include a smaller chance that lawsuits against the government will succeed and a better relationship with the IMF.

The Economist

Announcing that a woman has a smaller chance of maintaining a successful relationship (or even a date) if she is the smarter partner is downright damaging.

Independent

Having the dark blue set is "better than nothing", but there was a smaller chance of players landing on them than other sets, he added.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different scenarios, use "a smaller chance" to clearly indicate which situation has a lower probability of occurring. For example, "Wearing a seatbelt gives you a smaller chance of serious injury in a car accident."

Common error

Avoid implying causation when using "a smaller chance". Just because something has a lower probability doesn't mean other factors aren't involved. For instance, stating "Eating vegetables gives you a smaller chance of getting sick" is an oversimplification; other lifestyle choices also matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smaller chance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition or a verb. It quantifies a reduced probability or likelihood of a particular event or outcome. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a smaller chance" is a versatile noun phrase used to express a reduced probability or likelihood. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, from scientific research to news reports. The analysis reveals that while alternatives like ""a lesser chance"" or ""a reduced likelihood"" exist, "a smaller chance" maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse audiences. Remembering to avoid implying causation is key to using the phrase effectively, ensuring accurate communication of statistical information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slimmer chance

Indicates a slightly more informal and visually evocative way of expressing a reduced likelihood.

a lower probability

More direct synonym, focusing on 'lower' as the descriptor.

a smaller likelihood

Uses likelihood instead of chance, still conveying the same meaning of reduced probability.

a lesser chance

Uses "lesser" to denote a lower degree of probability, maintaining a formal tone.

a reduced possibility

Focuses on the 'possibility' aspect, highlighting a reduction in potential outcomes.

a reduced likelihood

Replaces "chance" with "likelihood", emphasizing the statistical aspect of the probability.

a decreased probability

Employs "probability" to provide a more technical and precise expression of the reduced chance.

a diminished prospect

Substitutes "chance" with "prospect", highlighting the reduced possibility from a future-oriented viewpoint.

a more limited opportunity

Shifts the focus to opportunity, implying the chance is constrained.

a fainter hope

Emphasizes the emotional aspect, suggesting the chance is weak or barely perceptible.

FAQs

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

You can use "a smaller chance" to compare the likelihood of different outcomes. For example, "Investing in bonds gives you "a smaller chance" of high returns, but also reduces your risk of significant losses."

What phrases are similar to "a smaller chance"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a lesser chance", "a reduced likelihood", or "a decreased probability". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it always better to aim for scenarios with "a smaller chance" of negative outcomes?

Not necessarily. Sometimes, accepting "a smaller chance" of a negative outcome is worth the potential benefits of a higher-risk, higher-reward strategy. It depends on your risk tolerance and goals.

What is the difference between "a smaller chance" and "a lower risk"?

"A smaller chance" refers specifically to the probability of something happening, while "a lower risk" encompasses both the probability and the potential impact of a negative event. You might accept "a smaller chance" of something with high severity because you consider the overall risk manageable.