question of luck

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question of luck" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations or outcomes that are determined by chance rather than skill or effort. Example: "Winning the lottery is often just a question of luck, as the odds are heavily stacked against you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"But it's always a question of luck.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a question of luck as well and of experience".

The Guardian - Sport

But I can see that we are beginning to play better, it is a question of luck now.

Independent

When I talked to Davis, I approached this basic question – of luck and fairness and whether he feels blessed or hard-done-by – several times.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is easy for some – publishers, agents, newspapers, the Man Group, book tables en bloc – but for many of us it's a question of luck.

The Guardian - Books

The reality is, most of us have broken the law at some stage, and whether or not we end up saddled with a record is more a question of luck – whether we got caught, basically.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

What a person achieves in life is above all a question of fate or luck.

IZA Journal of Migration

"It's a question of good luck or bad luck," he said.

The New York Times

It's not a question of bad luck.

The Guardian - Sport

Furthermore, it seems, independently of questions about degrees of luck, we must distinguish between two different kinds of luck.

SEP

The question of how resultant luck should affect punishment has been debated at least since Plato (The Laws IX, 876 877).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "question of luck", ensure the context clearly indicates that the outcome is significantly influenced by chance rather than skill or planning. For example, "Winning the lottery is largely a "question of luck".

Common error

Avoid using "question of luck" when skill, strategy, or effort play a significant role. Overemphasizing luck can diminish the importance of other contributing factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question of luck" functions as a noun phrase that identifies situations or outcomes heavily influenced by chance. Ludwig examples showcase its use in describing events where success or failure isn't solely determined by skill or effort.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "question of luck" is a phrase used to describe situations where chance plays a significant role in the outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media. While "skill" and "effort" often contribute to various scenarios, this phrase is fitting when chance determines results. Consider using alternative phrases such as "matter of chance" or "element of chance" to add nuance to your writing, and be mindful to not overuse the expression when other factors are also important.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matter of chance

Replaces "question" with "matter", emphasizing the role of randomness.

element of chance

Focuses on "chance" as a component influencing events, similar to luck.

role of fortune

Highlights "fortune" as the determining factor, a synonym for luck.

twist of fate

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of outcomes dictated by fate.

stroke of fortune

Indicates a sudden and favorable occurrence due to luck.

dice roll

Metaphorically refers to unpredictable events determined by chance.

game of chance

Highlights the unpredictable nature of a situation depending only on luck.

roll of the dice

Similar to "dice roll", implying a gamble with uncertain results.

arbitrary outcome

Focuses on the randomness and lack of clear reason behind the result.

lottery effect

Highlights the unpredictable nature of a situation depending on a draw.

FAQs

How can I use "question of luck" in a sentence?

Use "question of luck" to describe situations where the outcome depends largely on chance. For example, "Getting the job was a "question of luck" since many qualified candidates applied".

What's the difference between "question of luck" and "matter of chance"?

Both phrases are similar, but "question of luck" implies an inquiry into the role of luck, while "matter of chance" simply states that chance is the determining factor.

Which is more appropriate, "question of luck" or "skill", when describing success?

It depends on the context. If success is primarily due to chance, use "question of luck". If skill is the main factor, emphasize skill instead. For mixed scenarios consider an expression like, a mix of skill and luck.

What can I say instead of "question of luck"?

You can use alternatives like "matter of chance", "element of chance", or "role of fortune" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.