take a chance

USAGE SUMMARY

"take a chance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to suggest taking a risk or making a daring decision in an effort to gain something. For example: "Life is too short to not take a chance on something that could make you happy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But take a chance.

The New York Times

"I'll take a chance".

The New Yorker

"Take a chance," I say.

The New Yorker

We couldn't take a chance.

The New Yorker

"Then they'll take a chance".

The New York Times

"Take a chance," he said.

The New York Times

Don't take a chance.

The New York Times - Sports

"We were willing to take a chance.

The New York Times - Sports

You take a chance, like gambling".

The New York Times - Sports

We must take a chance on chance.

The New York Times

They wanted to take a chance.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take a chance" to encourage someone to consider an opportunity that involves some level of risk, especially when the potential reward is significant. For example: "This job offer is a long shot, but you should "take a chance" and apply anyway."

Common error

Avoid using "take a chance" when describing actions that are purely reckless or negligent, where the risks far outweigh any potential benefits. "Taking a chance" implies a calculated risk, not blind disregard for safety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a chance" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase expressing the act of risking something in the hope of a favorable outcome. As shown by Ludwig, its usage is widely accepted in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take a chance" is a widely accepted and frequently used expression that signifies the act of risking something in pursuit of a desired outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academia. When considering alternatives, it's crucial to choose phrases like "take a gamble" or "seize an opportunity" that closely align with the intended nuance. While encouraging calculated risks, avoid using the phrase to describe reckless or negligent actions. Remember that while "taking a chance" can be rewarding, careful assessment of risks and benefits is crucial before proceeding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a gamble

Direct synonym, replacing "chance" with "gamble" emphasizing risk.

gamble on it

Emphasizes the speculative and uncertain nature of the decision.

roll the dice

Highlights the element of chance and unpredictability in the undertaking.

seize an opportunity

Focuses on capturing a favorable moment, rather than explicitly acknowledging risk.

risk it all

Conveys a sense of high stakes and potential loss.

go for broke

Suggests an all-or-nothing approach with considerable risk.

venture forth

Implies a bold and courageous approach to a new and potentially risky situation.

jump in headfirst

Highlights the enthusiastic and immediate nature of the action, but omits the potential risk explicitly.

give it a shot

Emphasizes the attempt or effort, while diminishing the risk involved.

test the waters

Implies a cautious approach to exploring a new situation.

FAQs

What does "take a chance" mean?

The phrase "take a chance" means to do something despite the risk of failure or negative consequences, with the hope of achieving a positive outcome.

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

You can use "take a chance" in sentences like, "I decided to "take a chance" on the new business venture" or "Sometimes you have to "take a chance" if you want to succeed".

What are some alternatives to saying "take a chance"?

Some alternatives to "take a chance" include "take a gamble", "seize an opportunity", or "risk it all", depending on the specific context.

Is it always wise to "take a chance"?

While "taking a chance" can lead to great rewards, it's essential to assess the potential risks and benefits carefully before proceeding. Not all risks are worth "taking a gamble".