fighting chance

USAGE SUMMARY

"fighting chance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation that is difficult or challenging but still provides an opportunity for success. For example: Despite the difficult circumstances, I have a fighting chance of winning the election.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He had a fighting chance.

The New York Times

They finally had a fighting chance.

The New York Times - Arts

Local pundits give her a fighting chance.

The Economist

Didn't think I had a fighting chance.

Harvard University

Honey may have a fighting chance.

MIT Technology Review

But Canadians now have a fighting chance.

The Guardian

It gave me a fighting chance.

The Guardian

That gives everybody else a fighting chance.

The New York Times

We need reform with a fighting chance of actually working.

The New York Times

Those policies will give the middle class a fighting chance.

The New York Times

But the buggy whip makers never had a fighting chance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fighting chance" when you want to express that someone or something has a small but real possibility of succeeding, often against difficult odds. The phrase implies a struggle or challenge that must be overcome.

Common error

Avoid using "fighting chance" when the outcome is already certain or highly probable. The phrase is most effective when highlighting the existence of a chance amidst adversity, not to describe situations where success is guaranteed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fighting chance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "give a fighting chance", "have a fighting chance"). According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its role in describing scenarios where success is possible despite difficulties.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fighting chance" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to express the idea of a small but real possibility of success in the face of adversity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. It is frequently found in news and media sources, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts, though less common in highly formal or scientific writing. Alternatives like "reasonable prospect" or "legitimate shot" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Remember to use "fighting chance" when a situation warrants highlighting the struggle and effort involved in achieving a positive outcome rather than when the outcome is certain.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shot at success

Focuses on the potential for a positive outcome, emphasizing the effort involved.

legitimate shot

Emphasizes the validity and fairness of the opportunity.

fair opportunity

Highlights the impartiality and just nature of the chance.

decent opportunity

Implies a good, though not necessarily guaranteed, chance of success.

reasonable prospect

Focuses on the likelihood of a positive outcome, emphasizing the logical basis for hope.

real possibility

Highlights that the chance of success is tangible and grounded in reality.

outside possibility

Suggests that the chance of success is slim but still exists.

an even break

Highlights the idea of a balanced and equitable opportunity.

slim hope

Conveys a small degree of optimism in a difficult situation.

a prayer

Indicates that the chance of success is extremely low and relies on luck or divine intervention.

FAQs

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

You can use "fighting chance" to indicate that someone or something has a small, but real, possibility of success despite facing significant challenges. For example, "The new treatment gave him a "fighting chance" against the disease."

What can I say instead of "fighting chance"?

Alternatives to "fighting chance" include phrases like "reasonable prospect", "fair opportunity", or "legitimate shot", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "fighting chance" in formal writing?

Yes, "fighting chance" is generally acceptable in formal writing, although more formal alternatives like "reasonable prospect" might be preferred in some contexts. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "fighting chance" and "slim chance"?

"Fighting chance" implies that the possibility of success requires effort and struggle, whereas "slim chance" simply indicates that the probability is low. "Fighting chance" suggests there's something that can be done to improve the odds, while "slim chance" might imply that the outcome is largely beyond one's control.