odds — the chances or likelihood that a particular thing will happen
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the chances or likelihood that a particular thing will happen
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɑdz/
Example Sentences
- What are the odds that my boss will actually read my 50-page report?
- Against all odds, he passed the exam without studying.
- The odds of finding a parking spot in Gangnam are worse than winning the lottery.
odds
NOUN[/ɑdz/]
the chances or likelihood that a particular thing will happen
The odds of winning the lottery were very low.
The odds favored the experienced team. (OUTCOME + CHANCE = ODDS → the likelihood that something will happen)
He beat the odds and amazed the crowd.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word 'odds' derives from the 16th-century adjective 'odd', meaning unequal or uneven. It evolved to denote unequal chances or probability, particularly in gambling contexts where it refers to the ratio of uneven opportunities or chances between outcomes.
Breakdown
odd (unequal, uneven) + -s (plural suffix forming a noun indicating a ratio or measure of unequal probability).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“What are the odds that my boss will actually read my 50-page report?”
“Against all odds, he passed the exam without studying.”
“The odds of finding a parking spot in Gangnam are worse than winning the lottery.”
“She beat the odds and became the first in her family to graduate college.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.