the chances are — used to say that something is likely to be true or to happen
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: used to say that something is likely to be true or to happen
Pronunciation (IPA): /ðə ˈtʃæn.sɪz ɑːr/
Example Sentences
- The chances are that your cat secretly judges your life choices every single day.
- If you study every day, the chances are you'll pass the exam easily.
- The chances are he forgot our anniversary again, so let's just order pizza.
the chances are
ADVERB[/ðə ˈtʃæn.sɪz ɑːr/]
used to say that something is likely to be true or to happen
The chances are it'll rain today, so grab an umbrella before you leave.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word 'chance' derives from Latin 'cadentia' (a falling, accident), originally referring to the unpredictable outcome of dice falling. The phrase 'the chances are' developed as an idiomatic expression meaning that among multiple possible outcomes, one particular result is likely to occur, expressing probabilistic likelihood.
Breakdown
the (definite article) + chances (plural of 'chance', meaning possibilities or probabilities) + are (verb 'to be', indicating existence or likelihood). Together, the phrase expresses that a particular outcome is probable among possible alternatives.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The chances are that your cat secretly judges your life choices every single day.”
“If you study every day, the chances are you'll pass the exam easily.”
“The chances are he forgot our anniversary again, so let's just order pizza.”
“Given the traffic at this hour, the chances are we'll be late for the meeting.”
📚Related Words
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