rely on chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rely on chance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to indicate that someone is depending on luck or fortune instead of relying on their own skills or knowledge. For example: "He was too afraid to take the risk, so he decided to rely on chance and see how it played out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

What about slot machines and the lottery, which rely on chance, and involve no skill at all?

The New Yorker

While other people can make the best of their opportunities, they will have to rely on chance.

The Guardian

There are are also many sub-classes that we don't even know to look for bias against and have to rely on chance to discover.

University of California, Berkeley

Animals with a good memory for which trees are where, and when they last came into fruit, are likely to do better than those who rely on chance.

The Economist

He explained that the more questions asked, the more accurate the assessment because performance was less likely to rely on chance that the "right" questions came up.

The Guardian

We will always cherish his sharp wit, infectious energy and his insightful words-"People shouldn't have to rely on chance for a better life".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Rejewski recalled in 1980 that another way had been found that could have been used to solve the wirings, but that the method was "imperfect and tedious" and relied on chance.

Wikipedia

I only rely on chances because if we're creating chances, we'll win games".

BBC

In one of her playful conceits, Ms. Riordan relies on chance to determine what story to tell, asking the audience to roll dice to choose between subjects.

The New York Times

Her whole method relies on chance discoveries, and her life is arranged to encourage them.

The New York Times - Magazine

The bewildering inconsistencies between paired reviewers (see the introductory quote), for example, can leave the authors feeling that the fate of their work relies on chance and whim.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about situations where strategic planning is absent, use "rely on chance" to emphasize the dependence on unpredictable outcomes. For example: "Without a clear marketing strategy, the company will have to "rely on chance" for its product's success."

Common error

Avoid using "rely on chance" when you actually mean that strategic risks are being taken. "Relying on chance" suggests a lack of control or planning, not a calculated gamble.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rely on chance" functions as a verb phrase indicating dependence on unpredictable or random factors rather than skill or planning. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical usage, aligning with various examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

29%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rely on chance" is a grammatically sound phrase that indicates dependence on luck or unpredictable events. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's commonly used in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts to describe situations where planning or skill is absent. While alternatives like "depend on luck" or "trust to fortune" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance desired. It's crucial to avoid using this phrase when strategic risks are being taken, as it implies a lack of control rather than a calculated gamble.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depend on luck

This alternative focuses specifically on luck as the determining factor, simplifying the concept.

count on luck

A more casual way to express dependence on fortunate circumstances.

trust to fortune

This alternative has a more formal tone, emphasizing the role of fate or fortune.

leave to fate

This alternative implies a passive acceptance of whatever outcome occurs.

leave to hazard

This alternative uses 'hazard' to highlight the presence of danger and unpredictability.

gamble on outcome

This alternative adds a sense of risk and uncertainty similar to gambling.

trust in serendipity

This alternative emphasizes a belief that positive chance encounters will occur.

take a chance

This alternative shifts the focus to the action of taking a risk, rather than the reliance on chance itself.

bank on serendipity

This alternative specifies reliance on fortunate accidents and discoveries.

play the odds

Focuses on understanding and using probabilities to influence an outcome, but still acknowledging chance.

FAQs

How can I use "rely on chance" in a sentence?

You can use "rely on chance" to describe situations where outcomes depend on luck or unpredictable events, such as: "With no backup plan, they had to "rely on chance" that their proposal would be accepted".

What's a more formal way to say "rely on chance"?

A more formal alternative to "rely on chance" is to "trust to fortune", which suggests a greater influence of fate or destiny.

When is it appropriate to use "rely on chance" instead of "take a risk"?

"Rely on chance" implies a passive acceptance of uncertainty, while "take a risk" suggests active engagement with a potentially hazardous situation. Use "rely on chance" when there is no active intervention to influence the outcome.

What are some alternatives to "rely on chance"?

Alternatives to "rely on chance" include "depend on luck", "leave to fate", or "gamble on outcome". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.