game of chance

USAGE SUMMARY

"game of chance" is a grammatically correct phrase in written English and can be used in a variety of contexts.
Example 1: "The casino offered a variety of games of chance, including roulette, blackjack, and slot machines." Example 2: "Playing the lottery is a risky game of chance with slim chances of winning." Example 3: "Life can be seen as a game of chance, with unexpected events shaping our paths."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's all game of chance.

The New York Times

It's absolutely a game of chance.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bridge is a difficult game of chance.

The New York Times - Arts

So goes the game of chance.

The New York Times

Coin tossing is the archetypal game of chance.

Stanford University

Yet agriculture is a game of chance in Mali.

Columbia University

Poker is "absolutely a game of chance," he said.

The Washington Post

"Backgammon?" Ah, yes, the ancient game of chance and strategy.

The New York Times

It is, he reasons, a game of chance.

The New York Times

There's nothing like a game of chance before lunch.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It was the largest game-of-chance payout in history.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In legal or formal contexts, distinguish it clearly from a "game of skill" to avoid ambiguity regarding gambling regulations.

Common error

Avoid using "game of chance" to describe a situation that is actually a calculated risk where the outcome is significantly influenced by expertise. While often used interchangeably in casual speech, technical writing distinguishes between random variables and strategic probability.

Linguistic Context

In the examples provided by Ludwig, "game of chance" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It often acts as a predicate nominative (e.g. "It is a "game of chance".") or a direct object. Ludwig AI shows that the phrase is frequently modified by adjectives like "deadly", "archetypal" or "pure" to add nuance to the level of randomness involved.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "game of chance" is a highly versatile and grammatically robust phrase used to describe situations governed by randomness. Whether applied to literal gambling—such as roulette or baccarat—or used as a metaphor for the unpredictability of life and career paths, the phrase carries a weight of objectivity. Ludwig AI highlights its frequent use in distinguishing legal activities (skill vs. chance) and its presence in elite academic and journalistic circles. It remains the standard term for any event where the outcome is at least partly determined by random variables rather than strictly by strategy. When writing, remember that it is most effective when contrasting luck with skill or when highlighting the inherent risks in a particular venture.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

game of luck

Emphasizes the role of fortune over mathematical probability.

gamble

A more concise noun or verb referring to taking a risky chance.

game of risk

Highlights the potential for loss rather than just the mechanism of chance.

pure chance

Removes the game context to focus entirely on the random nature of an event.

lottery

Specifically refers to a game where winners are chosen by drawing lots.

roll of the dice

An idiomatic expression for a situation with an uncertain outcome.

matter of fortune

Focuses on the external forces or luck governing the result.

random event

A technical or scientific term for a single instance of chance.

speculative venture

A more formal and business-oriented way to describe a risky undertaking.

game of skill

The logical opposite, used for games determined by strategy and ability.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "game of chance"?

A "game of chance" is a game where the outcome is strongly influenced by a randomizing device like dice, spinning tops, cards or roulette wheels, rather than by the skill of the players.

Is poker considered a "game of chance"?

This is a subject of significant debate. While many courts view it as a "game of chance", others argue it is a "game of skill" because strategy and mathematical probability play such large roles.

How can I use "game of chance" in a metaphor?

You can use it to describe unpredictable aspects of life, such as "Finding the right job is often a "game of chance"." or "Agriculture in certain regions remains a dangerous "game of luck" due to weather."

What is the difference between a "game of chance" and a lottery?

A "game of chance" is a broad category. A "lottery" is a specific type of game where participants pay for a chance to win a prize through a random drawing.