an even chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an even chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where there is an equal probability of two outcomes occurring. Example: "In a fair coin toss, there is an even chance of landing on heads or tails."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An even game with an even chance for the championship, right?

The New York Times - Sports

Doctors have given him slightly better than an even chance of survival.

The New York Times

Others have said there is "less than an even chance by 2015," a split that persists.

The New York Times

"I'd say Burris has at least an even chance of being seated," Mr. Rose said.

The New York Times

If a Republican wins, he probably still has better than an even chance.

The New York Times

S.& P. had already announced that there was an even chance that the nation's AAA rating might be lowered.

The New York Times

"Taken together, these risks imply at least an even chance of default over the rating horizon," Moody's said.

The New York Times

Such a federal arrangement will give Ethiopians an even chance of keeping an authoritarian dictatorship at bay.

The New York Times

In the shorter term there was an even chance of about 1 billion people being short of water by 2050.

The Guardian

When a car hits a light truck in the side, occupants have an even chance of dying.

The New York Times

At the current time the stock seems to be incorporating an even chance of a revised £11 offer.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing probabilities, use "an even chance" to clearly indicate a 50% likelihood of an event occurring. This phrase is easily understood across various contexts and audiences.

Common error

While "an even chance" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in contexts that demand precise numerical probabilities or statistical rigor. In such cases, specify "50% probability" or use relevant statistical measures.

Linguistic Context

An even chance functions as a noun phrase that quantifies probability. It is used to indicate that the likelihood of something happening is 50%, according to Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an even chance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression indicating a 50% probability. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for a wide range of contexts, from news and media to scientific and business communications. While alternatives like "a fifty-fifty chance" or "equal probability" may be more appropriate in specific contexts, "an even chance" offers a readily understandable way to convey balanced odds. The phrase's widespread usage and clear meaning make it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fifty-fifty chance

Replaces "even" with the more explicit "fifty-fifty", emphasizing the 50% probability.

a 50/50 chance

A numerical variation of "fifty-fifty chance", using digits to represent the probability.

equal odds

Uses "odds" instead of "chance", focusing on the statistical aspect of probability.

equal probability

Replaces "chance" with the more formal term "probability", suitable for technical contexts.

a fair prospect

Substitutes "chance" with "prospect", implying a reasonable possibility of success or occurrence.

a balanced possibility

Emphasizes the equilibrium of the potential outcomes using "balanced".

a toss-up

Suggests the outcome is uncertain and depends on chance, similar to a coin toss.

an uncertain outcome

Highlights the lack of predictability rather than the equal probabilities.

a level playing field

Implies fairness and equal opportunity, where all participants have the same chances.

a break-even point

Refers to a situation where gains and losses are balanced, implying equal chances of either outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "an even chance" in a sentence?

You can use "an even chance" to describe situations where there is a 50% probability of something happening. For example, "There's "an even chance" that it will rain tomorrow."

What are some alternatives to "an even chance"?

Some alternatives to "an even chance" include "a fifty-fifty chance", "equal odds", or "equal probability", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "an even chance" or "a 50% chance"?

Both "an even chance" and "a 50% chance" are correct. "A 50% chance" is more precise and suitable for technical contexts, while "an even chance" is more commonly used in general conversation.

What does it mean when someone says there is "an even chance" of something?

It means that there is a 50% likelihood or probability of that event occurring. The chances of it happening and not happening are equal.