stand a chance
To have a possibility, however remote, of succeeding; to possibly be able to do something. Often used in the negative to mean the opposite. If we could just get an interception, we might stand a chance of winning this game. If that road is closed, we don't stand a chance of making it on time.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
stand a chance (of doing something)
to have a chance of doing something. Do you think I stand a chance of winning first place? Everyone stands a chance of catching the disease.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
stand a chance
Have a possibility or a hope of success, as in
Do you think Mary stands a chance of finishing the marathon? or
I think we stand a fair chance of seeing the Queen arrive at Buckingham Palace. This idiom was first recorded in 1796. Also see
not have an earthly chance.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
stand a chance
COMMON
1. If someone or something stands a chance, it is possible that they will succeed. Nathan realised that their marriage hadn't stood a chance. I obviously did stand a chance, because before too long Geoff asked me to dance and we spent the rest of the evening together.
2. If someone or something does not stand a chance, they are certain to be killed, destroyed or defeated. The car exploded. She didn't stand a chance.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012
(not) stand a chance (of doing something)
(not) have a chance (of doing something): You stand a very good chance of winning the prize. ♢ He doesn’t stand a chance with her (= she won’t want to have a relationship with him).Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
stand a chance
To have a chance, as of gaining or accomplishing something.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.