a weapon of chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a weapon of chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing unpredictability or randomness, often in a metaphorical sense related to decision-making or strategy. Example: "In the game of poker, luck plays a significant role, making it a weapon of chance for players who rely on fortune rather than skill."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"More probably, however, it was a weapon of chance, picked up in desperation, in a final act of defiance".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Apart from terrorising and traumatising people, burning down schools is a weapon of economic war, destroying the chance of self-improvement.

BBC

It noted that Mr. Hussein could use either conventional terrorism or a weapon of mass destruction as "his last chance to exact vengeance by taking a large number of victims with him".

The New York Times

I think the chances of Saddam being willing, or able, to use a weapon of mass destruction against us are being exaggerated.

The New York Times

It's a weapon of mass destruction.

The New Yorker

Suzhi can also be a weapon of the weak.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Kozachik defended his buyback efforts further by claiming that the program gives gun owners who no longer feel comfortable owning a weapon a chance to "get rid of it in proper manner".

Huffington Post

It is also used by many as a weapon with high chance of hitting the target at mid-range.

WikiHow

Life is a game of chance.

WikiHow

It is a serious weapon, of course.

The New York Times

It was a first weapon of choice.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a weapon of chance", consider the context and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of unpredictability or randomness. This phrase is best used when highlighting the role of luck or unforeseen circumstances in a particular situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a weapon of chance" when referring to something that is deliberately designed for harm. This phrase is best suited for situations where unpredictability, not malice, is the key factor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a weapon of chance" functions as a noun phrase, where 'weapon' is the noun and 'of chance' is a prepositional phrase modifying it. The phrase describes something that acts as a weapon but relies on unpredictable factors.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a weapon of chance" is a phrase used to describe something that acts as a weapon but relies on unpredictable or random factors. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and best used when the role of luck or unforeseen circumstances is central to the context. While not very common, it appears in neutral registers like news and media as well as scientific discussions. When using this phrase, be aware of its connotation and ensure it aligns with your intended meaning, and consider related phrases like "a matter of luck" or "governed by fate" for alternative ways to express unpredictability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A matter of luck

Focuses specifically on the element of luck determining the outcome.

Subject to fortune

Highlights the vulnerability to unpredictable external forces.

Governed by fate

Emphasizes the role of destiny in shaping events.

An accident of history

Indicates that something happened unexpectedly and has significant consequences.

A random occurrence

Highlights the lack of a predictable pattern or cause.

Dependent on circumstance

Shows how something is affected by the situation or conditions.

A roll of the dice

Implies the outcome is completely unpredictable and based on chance.

A fluke event

Indicates an unusual or improbable occurrence with a significant impact.

Unpredictable variable

Highlights the uncertain and fluctuating nature of something that is not easily controlled.

Haphazard method

Implies a lack of planning and reliance on chance for achieving a goal.

FAQs

How can "a weapon of chance" be used metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "a weapon of chance" describes something unpredictable that can unexpectedly influence outcomes, like luck in a game or unforeseen circumstances in a negotiation.

What's a good alternative to "a weapon of chance"?

Alternatives include "a matter of luck", "subject to fortune", or "governed by fate", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a weapon of chance" in formal writing?

Yes, "a weapon of chance" can be used in formal writing, but consider your audience and the specific context. It may be more appropriate in descriptive or narrative contexts than in highly technical ones.

How does "a weapon of chance" differ from "a strategic tool"?

"A weapon of chance" implies unpredictability and reliance on luck, whereas "a strategic tool" suggests a deliberate and calculated approach. They represent opposite ends of the spectrum regarding control and planning.