rely on fortune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rely on fortune" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing dependence on luck or chance in various situations, such as decision-making or outcomes. Example: "In uncertain times, some people choose to rely on fortune rather than careful planning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

(Alas, to get this data, one has to rely on Fortune).

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The company says 400 B2C and B2B customers (including divisions of Fortune 500 organizations) rely on its marketing technology today, and that they've achieved profitability in 2011, after a decade in business.

TechCrunch

But for all the popularity of spiritual advisers in South Korea, it still shocks to see the leaders of huge public companies relying on fortune-tellers.

The New York Times

Don't rely on luck.

The New York Times

Norwich's interim boss Neil Adams has said his team must rely on good fortune if they are to avoid relegation.

BBC

Yet, if it is to get close, it will rely on the fortunes of SriLankan Airlines, the flag carrier that accounts for about 60% of air traffic to the country.

The Economist

The next administration may not be able to rely on such good fortune.

The Economist

Rather than rely on his personal fortune, which intelligence analysts believe to have been dissipated by the early 1990s, Bin Laden is thought to have maintained a network of private donors in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and elsewhere in the Gulf who supplied millions of dollars over the years.

The Guardian

Even if Pernod spins off Allied's doughnut and ice cream businesses, which are worth about £1 billion ($1.9 billion), it will need to rely heavily on Fortune's cash to get a deal done.

The New York Times

It was the first time that the Argentinians had to rely on their own good fortune to survive.

Independent

But even they, and their supporters' trust, might agree that if there was a more equitable income clubs would not have to rely on the simple good fortune of the draw each season and may even not have got into such a bad situation had a different system existed.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider whether "relying on fortune" is presented as a positive or negative strategy; often, it implies a lack of control or planning.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "fortune" meaning luck with "Fortune" referring to Fortune 500 companies. The context should make the intended meaning clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rely on fortune" functions as a verb phrase indicating dependence on luck or chance. As Ludwig AI suggests, it highlights the act of trusting that external, unpredictable factors will lead to a desired outcome.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

20%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rely on fortune" is a grammatically correct expression that indicates a dependence on luck or chance rather than skill or planning. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While it is relatively rare, it can appear in various contexts, including news, general discussions, and formal business settings. The phrase suggests acceptance of uncertainty and hope for a favorable outcome, without necessarily taking direct control. Related phrases include "depend on luck", "trust to fate", and "bank on serendipity", each with slightly different nuances. When using the phrase, ensure clarity in distinguishing between "fortune" meaning luck and "Fortune" referring to corporate entities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Depend on luck

Emphasizes reliance on chance or unpredictable events.

Trust to fate

Implies a belief that outcomes are predetermined and unavoidable.

Bank on serendipity

Suggests relying on fortunate accidents or unexpected discoveries.

Count on good luck

Focuses on the expectation of favorable outcomes due to chance.

Leave to chance

Indicates a willingness to let outcomes be determined randomly.

Take a gamble

Highlights the risk and uncertainty involved in relying on fortune.

Hope for the best

Expresses a desire for a positive outcome without necessarily expecting it.

Wish upon a star

Implies relying on a fantastical or improbable source of good fortune.

Trust in providence

Suggests reliance on a divine or supernatural power for guidance.

Take pot luck

Implies accepting whatever outcome happens to be available or offered.

FAQs

What does it mean to "rely on fortune"?

To "rely on fortune" means to depend on luck or chance rather than on skill, effort, or planning. It suggests that outcomes are determined by external factors beyond one's control.

Is it better to "rely on fortune" or make a plan?

Generally, making a plan is considered more reliable than to "rely on fortune", as it involves proactive steps towards achieving a desired outcome. However, in situations with high uncertainty, some may choose to "depend on luck".

What are some alternatives to "rely on fortune"?

Some alternatives to "rely on fortune" include "depend on luck", "trust to fate", or "bank on serendipity", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to "rely on fortune"?

It may be appropriate to "rely on fortune" when the factors influencing an outcome are unpredictable or uncontrollable, or when the potential consequences of failure are minimal. However, it's generally not advised for important decisions.