legitimate chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "legitimate chance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a valid or reasonable opportunity for something to happen or be achieved. Example: "With the new marketing strategy in place, we now have a legitimate chance of increasing our sales this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We still have a legitimate chance".

The New York Times - Sports

"He has a legitimate chance to play early and often.

The New York Times - Sports

We've got a legitimate chance on our home court.

The New York Times - Sports

"Ten or 12 teams have a legitimate chance.

The New York Times - Sports

With Rory we had a very legitimate chance of gold.

The Guardian - Sport

This is DiMarco's second legitimate chance to win the Masters.

The New York Times - Sports

This may be his one legitimate chance to make history.

The New York Times - Sports

Wooldridge immediately realized that there was no legitimate chance to defeat the contract.

The New York Times

Especially, if you think you've got a legitimate chance to compete.

The New York Times - Sports

But there are several men with a legitimate chance to stop him.

The New York Times - Sports

You've got one more legitimate chance to make an Olympic medal a reality.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "legitimate chance", ensure that the context clearly establishes what the chance pertains to. Provide specific details to avoid ambiguity and enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "legitimate chance" when the likelihood is minimal or unsupported. Ensure the opportunity is genuinely plausible, not merely a remote possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "legitimate chance" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun "chance". It describes the quality of the chance, indicating that it is valid, reasonable, or justifiable. The Ludwig AI analysis supports this function, demonstrating its correct usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "legitimate chance" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a valid or reasonable opportunity. As supported by Ludwig, its prevalence in news and media sources indicates its broad applicability across various contexts. Alternatives such as "genuine opportunity" or "realistic prospect" can be used to add nuance, but the core meaning remains consistent. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly establishes the nature of the opportunity to avoid ambiguity. The Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is widely accepted and understood, making it a reliable choice for expressing a credible possibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Genuine opportunity

Replaces 'legitimate' with 'genuine', emphasizing authenticity of the opportunity.

Realistic prospect

Substitutes 'chance' with 'prospect', focusing on the likelihood of something happening.

Viable possibility

Emphasizes that the chance is practical and workable.

Credible opening

Highlights the believability and potential of the opportunity.

Plausible occasion

Focuses on the reasonableness of the opportunity arising.

Substantial likelihood

Emphasizes the considerable probability of the event occurring.

Definite possibility

Stresses that the chance is concrete and well-defined.

Fair opportunity

Highlights the impartiality and justness of the chance.

Reasonable expectation

Focuses on the justifiable anticipation of something happening.

Valid prospect

Indicates that the chance is sound and well-founded.

FAQs

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

You can use "legitimate chance" to describe a real possibility or opportunity. For example: "The team now has a "legitimate chance" to win the championship."

What are some alternatives to saying "legitimate chance"?

Alternatives include "genuine opportunity", "realistic prospect", or "viable possibility", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "legitimate chance" or "real chance"?

"Legitimate chance" and "real chance" are often interchangeable, but "legitimate" implies validity and justification, while "real" simply emphasizes that the chance is not imaginary. The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Can "legitimate chance" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "legitimate chance" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing opportunities, possibilities, or prospects in a factual and objective manner.