either chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "either chance" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express a choice between two possibilities, but it lacks context and clarity. Example: "You can take either chance to win the game, but you must decide quickly."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

New England had two opportunities to score early, but midfielder Lee Nguyen couldn't convert either chance.

The New York Times - Sports

Of course, when psychics get those kinds of hits, logic tells you that it is either chance, or that they are an extraordinarily gifted medium, or have found out the information in some other way".

Independent

Discovery supposes either chance or inductive reasoning.

International Congress Series

But he failed to hit the target with either chance, while captain Koo Ja-cheol saw a deflected shot fly just wide.

BBC

Aguero was played through twice but could not take either chance, leaving Yaya Toure - so often the man for the big occasion - to finally make the breakthrough.

BBC

Examples of adaptive radiations suggest that either chance or adaptation can be the dominant factor in shaping the adaptive process and the resulting adaptive radiations [7], [8].

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"I didn't come to the first rank either by chance or by obsession," he said.

The New York Times

"I didn't come to the first rank either by chance or by obsession," Mr. Hollande said in the interview.

The New York Times

People came in contact with the maa-alused or maahiset either by chance or at the wish of the elves themselves.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Every customer interaction then becomes either a chance to learn and improve, or a ringing endorsement.

TechCrunch

Alternatively, (2) cultural traits may be so plastic as to have much of their total variability explored either by chance or in response to local environments.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific writing, specify whether you are referring to probability of an occurrence (chance) or selection between options.

Common error

Avoid using "either chance" when a clearer alternative like "either option" or "either possibility" would better convey the intended meaning. This prevents ambiguity in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "either chance" functions as a conjunction phrase, attempting to connect two possible outcomes or reasons. However, as noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is not considered grammatically correct and can be vague in meaning. It's often used to suggest that something could be due to one of two possibilities.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "either chance" is used to present two possible explanations or outcomes, but Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable and vague. It appears in scientific and news contexts, but its formal use is limited. Alternatives like "either option" or "either possibility" are generally preferred for greater clarity. To ensure clear communication, carefully consider the context and choose the most precise wording. Using more specific alternatives will enhance the overall quality and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

either possibility

Focuses on the existence of two distinct options or eventualities, emphasizing the choice between them.

either option

Highlights the availability of two choices, suggesting a decision-making scenario.

mere coincidence

Emphasizes the accidental nature of an event, suggesting it occurred without planning or intent.

random occurrence

Stresses the unpredictable and haphazard nature of an event or situation.

by happenstance

Highlights the role of luck or unforeseen circumstances in bringing about an event.

by accident

Emphasizes the unintentional nature of an event, suggesting it occurred without deliberate action.

sheer luck

Highlights the role of good fortune in achieving a positive outcome.

pure luck

Similar to "sheer luck", it emphasizes the role of good fortune.

random selection

Focuses on the process of choosing something without a specific method.

fortuitous event

Indicates an event that happens by chance and brings a positive outcome.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "either possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "either possibility" to indicate one of two options or outcomes. For example, "The experiment will confirm either possibility: the drug is effective, or it is not".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "either chance"?

Instead of "either chance", consider using phrases like "either option", "either possibility", or "mere coincidence", depending on the context.

Is "either chance" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "either chance" is not the most grammatically sound phrase. Alternatives like "either option" or "either possibility" are generally preferred for greater clarity.

What's the difference between "either chance" and "either option"?

"Either chance" implies one of two random occurrences, while "either option" suggests a selection between two available choices. The context determines the more appropriate phrase.