dim chances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dim chances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where the likelihood of something happening is very low or uncertain. Example: "Given the current circumstances, there are dim chances of us winning the match."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Patrick Ewing's already dim chances of winning a title would die instantly.

The New York Times - Sports

Zaragoza's dim chances of remaining in the first division were handed another setback with a 1-1 tie against Osasuna.

The New York Times - Sports

A study by the National Committee on the Employment of Youth has found very dim chances for advancement by paraprofessionals, tens of thou sands of whom have been hired as needy, promising indi viduals during the last four years.

The New York Times

The Senate on Tuesday killed a bipartisan bill to overhaul Congress' campaign finance laws, dashing already dim chances for a successful end this year to the 25-year drive to curb spending and special-interest influence on House and Senate elections.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The company still had money to run the business for a few years, but with the offer from Nest and the dim chances surrounding the next funding round, it make sense to move on.

TechCrunch

Eventually, the dim chances of today's youth might even have a long-term effect that is much more severe.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

There was a dim chance that the reliably tight-lipped "X-Files" creator Chris Carter might actually reveal something about the film -- maybe even the title.

Los Angeles Times

Despite the dimming chances of survival, officials expressed hope today that the remaining worker might be found alive.

The New York Times

The college is millions of dollars in debt and does not have accreditation, dimming chances for another season.

The New York Times - Sports

The report on Friday that the economy grew at an anemic 1.3 percent rate in the second quarter dimmed chances of the nation's 9.2 percent unemployment rate falling quickly as Mr. Obama heads into his re-election campaign.

The New York Times

(Reuters) YUGOSLAVIA: NEW MILOSEVIC CHALLENGER -- Formalizing the breach in opposition ranks and dimming chances of voting out Mr. Milosevic, a coalition chose a new challenger, Vojislav Kostunica, left, to run against him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dim chances" to accurately reflect situations where the possibility of a favorable outcome is significantly reduced. Ensure your language matches the level of uncertainty or pessimism you wish to convey.

Common error

Avoid using definitive language (e.g., "will never happen") when describing situations with "dim chances". Acknowledge the small possibility that remains, even if unlikely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dim chances" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence or clause, describing the likelihood or probability of an event occurring. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dim chances" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to denote a low probability or pessimistic outlook. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase serves to communicate doubt and uncertainty about future events. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, while the phrase is valid, writers should carefully consider the specific context and audience to determine if a more formal alternative, such as "low probability", would be more appropriate. The expression "dim chances" is best used when the situation warrants an acknowledgement of the unlikelihood of a positive outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slim chances

This alternative suggests a very small probability of success.

remote possibility

This phrase emphasizes the distance or unlikelihood of the event occurring.

slight hope

This suggests that there's still some hope, but it's minimal.

faint prospect

This indicates a weak or unclear chance of something happening.

low probability

This is a more formal way of saying that something is unlikely to happen.

poor odds

This suggests that the chances of success are unfavorable.

bleak outlook

This paints a pessimistic picture of future possibilities.

limited potential

This suggests that something's growth or success is restricted.

reduced likelihood

This formally states that an event is less likely to occur.

minimal expectation

This sets expectations very low, suggesting little anticipation of success.

FAQs

How can I use "dim chances" in a sentence?

You can use "dim chances" to describe situations where the likelihood of something happening is low. For instance, "Given the current economic climate, there are "dim chances" of a rapid recovery".

What are some alternatives to "dim chances"?

Alternatives include "slim chances", "remote possibility", or "slight hope", depending on the context and the degree of improbability you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "dim chances" in formal writing?

Yes, "dim chances" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in very formal contexts, consider using "low probability" or "reduced likelihood" for a more technical tone.

What's the difference between "dim chances" and "slim chances"?

While both phrases indicate a low probability, "slim chances" might suggest a slightly more positive, albeit still minimal, possibility compared to "dim chances", which implies a more pessimistic or obscured outlook.