zero chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "zero chance" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means that there is no possibility or likelihood of something happening. Example: "I have zero chance of getting a good grade on this test. I didn't study at all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Zero chance".

The Guardian - Sport

Hence there is zero chance of default.

The Guardian - Opinion

And Damon apparently has zero chance.

The New York Times - Sports

Has zero chance of winning.

The New Yorker

"There's zero chance it'll rain.

The New York Times

Zero chance," Mr. Saft said.

The New York Times - Science

"He had almost zero chance to win".

The New York Times

But really he has just zero chance of getting elected".

The New Yorker

"No, there's no chance of that whatsoever, zero chance.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"There is a non-zero chance that I would vote for you.

The New Yorker

"Zero [chance]," he said.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "zero chance" to express a definitive lack of possibility, avoiding more nuanced expressions when certainty is intended. It can effectively convey a sense of finality or impossibility in a statement.

Common error

While "zero chance" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in highly formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "no possibility" or "no likelihood" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "zero chance" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying the absence of possibility or likelihood. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. Examples show it negates the prospect of an event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "zero chance" is a grammatically correct and very common way to express a complete lack of possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to informal settings, with alternatives like "no possibility" being preferable in formal writing. When using "zero chance", ensure it accurately reflects your intended meaning of absolute impossibility, avoiding overuse in contexts requiring a more nuanced approach. The frequency of this phrase and its clear meaning make it a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no possibility

Replaces "chance" with the more formal "possibility".

no likelihood

Substitutes "chance" with "likelihood", emphasizing the improbability of an event.

impossible

A stronger, single-word alternative indicating something cannot occur.

out of the question

Indicates something is not worth considering.

beyond the realm of possibility

A more elaborate way to express impossibility.

no hope

Emphasizes the absence of any positive expectation.

not a prayer

An informal idiom expressing hopelessness.

no way

A colloquial expression denying any possibility.

fat chance

A sarcastic idiom expressing disbelief in a possibility.

not a snowball's chance in hell

An emphatic idiom conveying extreme improbability.

FAQs

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

You can use "zero chance" to express that something is completely impossible or has no possibility of happening. For example, "There is "zero chance" of rain today" or "He has "zero chance" of winning the election".

What can I say instead of "zero chance"?

You can use alternatives like "no possibility", "no likelihood", or "impossible" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it more formal to say "no possibility" instead of "zero chance"?

Yes, "no possibility" is generally considered more formal than "zero chance". Use "no possibility" in formal writing and presentations, while "zero chance" is suitable for informal conversations and writing.

What's the difference between "zero chance" and "slim chance"?

"Zero chance" means there is absolutely no possibility of something happening. "Slim chance" indicates that there is a very small, though perhaps unlikely, possibility.