chance (doing) (something)
1. To knowingly risk having something bad happen (as a result of something else). There's no way I would chance losing my job just to earn a little cash on the side. I told him he shouldn't skip school, but he said he was willing to chance suspension in order to see his favorite band play live. I wouldn't chance sneaking out if I were you. If Mom and Dad catch you, you'll be grounded for a month!
2. To pursue some risky action or outcome. I wouldn't chance drinking that milk if I were you—it's expired! I knew I didn't have much time before my train arrived, but I decided to chance a quick drink at the bar anyway. No way, I'm not chancing getting the flu this year—I already got my flu shot!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
chance something
to risk doing something; to try doing something while being aware of the risk involved. I don't usually ride horses, but this time I will chance it. Bob didn't have a ticket, but he went to the airport anyway, chancing a cancellation.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.