chance presented

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chance presented" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an opportunity that has arisen unexpectedly or fortuitously. Example: "When the chance presented itself to travel abroad for work, I knew I had to take it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Chance presented him with the means.

The New York Times - Books

When the chance presented itself to run his own theater, he jumped at it.

The New York Times

But when a third chance presented itself he was grateful for Fish putting a backhand volley wide.

The Guardian - Sport

That chance presented itself today in the form of an "application for emergency relief" filed at the court by the New Jersey Republican Party.

The New York Times

No opening on the court materialized when they hit their prime, or the wrong president was in office when the chance presented itself.

The Washington Post

Although there were not many of them, Hooper did still manage to prove some moments of quality, particularly when a sniff of a goalscoring chance presented itself.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

If the old laws are not changed now, it will be many years before such a chance presents itself again.

The Economist

But Jimenez's fine round continues; he's lifted an approach at 12 to six feet, another birdie chance presenting itself.

The Guardian - Sport

But as often as not, when that second chance presents itself, the actors immediately squander the opportunity by appearing in more slop.

The Guardian - Film

Space opens up in front of him but rather than shoot when the chance presents itself, he dithers and eventually has to settle for a corner.

The Guardian - Sport

His Liber de ludo aleae (The Book on Games of Chance) presents the first systematic computations of probabilities, a century before Blaise Pascal and Pierre de Fermat.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "chance presented" to indicate a favorable moment or situation that has emerged, especially when emphasizing the element of opportunity or potential gain. For example, "When the "chance presented" itself, he seized the opportunity to advance his career."

Common error

Avoid using "chance presented" when you intend to describe the act of presenting something, as this phrase describes an opportunity arising, not an action performed. Instead of "He "chance presented" his idea", say "He presented his idea".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chance presented" functions as a subject complement or adjectival modifier, describing a situation where an opportunity or favorable moment has become available. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound, painting the picture of unforeseen openings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

20%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chance presented" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a situation where an opportunity has arisen. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a subject complement or adjectival modifier, primarily used in news, sports, and academic contexts. It is most effective when emphasizing the unexpected nature of the opportunity. When selecting alternative phrases, consider context and the specific nuance you wish to convey, such as the timing (moment presented itself) or the enabling conditions (circumstances allowed). Remember to avoid misinterpreting the passive form and confusing it with a deliberate action of presenting something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opportunity arose

Swaps "chance" with "opportunity" and "presented" with "arose", focusing on the emergence of a favorable situation.

occasion offered itself

Replaces "chance" with "occasion" and uses a reflexive structure to emphasize the availability of the opportunity.

opening materialized

Emphasizes the concrete appearance of an opportunity, using "opening" and "materialized" to suggest something previously unavailable is now present.

a window of opportunity appeared

Uses the metaphor of a "window of opportunity" to convey a limited timeframe.

the moment presented itself

Focuses on the timing of the opportunity, highlighting a specific point in time when action is possible.

circumstances allowed

Shifts the focus to the enabling conditions that made the opportunity possible.

the situation permitted

Similar to "circumstances allowed", this emphasizes the permissibility granted by the current state of affairs.

fate intervened

Introduces the element of destiny or chance, suggesting the opportunity was divinely or randomly provided.

providence offered a way

Attributes the opportunity to divine guidance, emphasizing a preordained or benevolent source.

a lucky break occurred

Highlights the fortuitous nature of the opportunity, emphasizing good luck and chance.

FAQs

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

Use "chance presented" to describe a situation where an opportunity has arisen unexpectedly. For example, "When the "chance presented" itself, she applied for the promotion."

What is a good alternative to "chance presented"?

You can use alternatives like "opportunity arose", "occasion offered itself", or "opening materialized" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "a chance was presented"?

Yes, "a chance was presented" is grammatically correct, but "chance presented" is more concise and emphasizes the spontaneous nature of the opportunity. The passive form shifts the focus to the chance itself rather than the circumstances.

What's the difference between "chance presented" and "opportunity presented"?

While similar, "chance presented" often implies a more unexpected or fortuitous opening, while "opportunity presented" can suggest a more deliberate or expected offering. Both are valid, but the subtle difference in connotation can affect your sentence's tone.