but chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrasting idea or to indicate that something is dependent on luck or randomness. Example: "I had planned everything perfectly, but chance intervened and changed the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

But Chance didn't back down.

The Washington Post

But chance is now contemplated, considered and factored.

The Guardian - Opinion

But chance of a stroke may increase immediately after intake, particularly among infrequent consumers.

Harvard University

But chance turns out to be a hard thing to rule out.

The New York Times

But chance also and spontaneity are reckoned among causes: many things are said both to be and to come to be as a result of chance and spontaneity.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We jibed and Pyewacket followed us, but Chance kept on going and that was their defining moment".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

But chances are he will be.

The New York Times - Sports

But chances are, many know his voice.

The New York Times

"But chances are on the slimmer side".

The New York Times

But chances are much of it wouldn't be honored.

The New York Times

Both locals and foreigners often ask but chances seem low.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but chance" to introduce an element of unpredictability or luck that contrasts with a previous statement or plan. This can add nuance and realism to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but chance" when a direct cause-and-effect relationship is more appropriate. If an event is clearly the result of a specific action, using "but chance" may obscure the true reason.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but chance" functions as a conjunction introducing a contrasting element of randomness or unpredictability. It typically connects two clauses, where the second clause highlights how chance affects or alters the situation described in the first clause. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but chance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to introduce an element of unpredictability or luck. According to Ludwig AI, it is most frequently used in news, academic and scientific contexts, indicating its applicability across various forms of discourse. Alternative expressions like "however chance" or "despite the chance" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in tone or emphasis. When using the phrase, ensure it appropriately reflects a genuine element of chance, rather than obscuring clear causal relationships. Overall, understanding the function and purpose of "but chance" enhances writing by enabling a more nuanced representation of reality, confirmed by several examples from Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however chance

Replaces 'but' with 'however', emphasizing the contrast while maintaining the focus on chance.

yet chance

Uses 'yet' instead of 'but', offering a slightly more formal tone but retaining the contrasting meaning.

though chance

Substitutes 'but' with 'though', creating a concessive clause with a similar meaning.

despite the chance

Replaces the conjunction with a prepositional phrase, highlighting the element of chance as something to overcome.

in spite of chance

Synonymous with 'despite the chance', offering a slightly more emphatic tone.

notwithstanding the chance

A more formal alternative to 'despite the chance', conveying a similar sense of overcoming an obstacle.

even so chance

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the event happening despite the role of chance.

still chance

Implies that chance played a role despite other factors being considered.

conversely chance

Introduces chance as an opposite or contrasting factor.

on the other hand chance

Presents chance as an alternative consideration or perspective.

FAQs

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

"But chance" is used to introduce an element of unpredictability or luck that affects the outcome. For example: "I had a plan, but chance intervened and changed everything."

What are some alternatives to "but chance"?

Alternatives include "however chance", "yet chance", or "despite the chance", depending on the specific context.

Is "but chance" grammatically correct?

Yes, "but chance" is grammatically correct when used to introduce a contrasting element of luck or unpredictability.

What is the difference between "but chance" and "but fate"?

"But chance" refers to random or unpredictable events, while "but fate" implies a predetermined or destined outcome. While the terms share similarities, "fate" suggests more of an overarching, unavoidable force.