beating the odds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beating the odds" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to refer to someone or something overcoming significant obstacles or expectations. For example, you could say, "Rosa was a single mother with no college degree, yet she managed to beat the odds and become a successful attorney."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Together, beating the odds.

The New York Times - Sports

They're beating the odds.

The Guardian - Film

Beating the odds has become a Baltimore specialty.

The New York Times

The chicken, beating the odds, comes out perfectly moist and tender.

The New York Times - Food

Being held up as "beating the odds", "done good", or "escaped" does not make me happy.

The Guardian

Beating the odds in "Q & A" required correct answers to a set of questions.

The New York Times - Arts

Underdogs beating the odds to win are fun to read about.

The Guardian

He has traveled the world speaking about his seven step philosophy to beating the odds.

The New York Times - Sports

Aspiring entrants submit far too many applications in the hope of beating the odds.

The New York Times

Ireland will start as favorite, but beating the odds has become an Afghan habit.

The New York Times - Sports

And does Mr. Tatum have any shot of beating the odds?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "beating the odds", ensure the context clearly establishes the challenges or difficulties that were overcome. This provides necessary contrast and emphasizes the magnitude of the success.

Common error

Avoid using "beating the odds" for minor accomplishments or everyday tasks. This dilutes the phrase's impact and makes it sound hyperbolic. Reserve it for situations where genuine, significant challenges were overcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beating the odds" functions as a verbal phrase, often acting as a noun modifier or part of a larger predicate. It describes the action of overcoming challenges or succeeding against expectations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "beating the odds" is a versatile and impactful way to describe overcoming significant challenges and achieving unexpected success. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It's commonly found in news and media, as well as formal and business contexts. To maximize its effectiveness, use it to highlight genuinely remarkable achievements and provide context to emphasize the difficulties overcome. Remember to avoid overuse in trivial situations to maintain its impact. With a neutral register and a powerful communicative purpose, "beating the odds" is a valuable tool for emphasizing resilience and inspiring others.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defying the odds

Mirrors the original phrase but with a slightly different article.

defying expectations

Emphasizes exceeding what was predicted or anticipated.

overcoming adversity

Highlights the struggle against difficult circumstances.

triumphing over challenges

Focuses on achieving victory despite obstacles.

achieving the impossible

Emphasizes the seemingly unattainable nature of the success.

rising above circumstances

Focuses on escaping negative or limiting conditions.

proving them wrong

Highlights the act of disproving negative predictions.

coming out on top

Focuses on achieving ultimate success after a struggle.

bucking the trend

Highlights acting in opposition to a prevailing pattern.

swimming against the tide

Emphasizes resistance to a dominant force or opinion.

FAQs

How can I use "beating the odds" in a sentence?

You can use "beating the odds" to describe someone or something that succeeds despite facing significant challenges. For example, "Despite coming from a disadvantaged background, she succeeded in "beating the odds" and becoming a doctor."

What's a similar phrase to "beating the odds"?

Similar phrases include "defying expectations", "overcoming adversity", or "triumphing over challenges".

Is "beating the odds" formal or informal?

"Beating the odds" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though its impact is strongest when used to describe significant achievements. More formal contexts may require alternatives such as "overcoming obstacles".

What does it mean to "beat the odds"?

To "beat the odds" means to succeed in a situation where the chances of success were very low. It implies overcoming significant obstacles or defying negative predictions.