chance'd be a fine thing
Synonym of no chance or fat chance, with a somewhat more cheerful attitude.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I would love a vacation, but chance'd be a fine thing.”
“You think I can win the lottery? Chance'd be a fine thing.”
“A full night of sleep? Chance'd be a fine thing with a new baby.”
“I asked my boss for a month of paid leave, but he just laughed and said chance'd be a fine thing.”
“My friend thinks we will finish this project by Friday, but with our busy schedule, chance'd be a fine thing.”
“He hopes to find a quiet apartment in the city center for a low price, though chance'd be a fine thing these days.”
“My brother suggests that we retire early and move to the coast, but with the rising cost of living, chance'd be a fine thing for most people.”
“She dreamed of traveling the world on a whim, yet she knew that with her current debts, chance'd be a fine thing.”
An ellipsis of even having a chance [to do so / at that] would be a fine thing and similar ideas, in reference to something that is either completely impossible or currently forbidden by circumstances, higher authorities, etc., originally chiefly with regard to opportunities to have sex or get married.
- 01
be a thing
To exist, or to be available, widespread, possible, or a common practice.
- 02
best thing since sliced bread
Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.
- 03
best thing since sliced pan
Alternative form of greatest thing since sliced bread.
- 04
bright young thing
One who is youthful, clever, eager, and high-spirited in manner and attractive in appearance.
- 05
do one's own thing
To do what one considers to be best suited or most satisfying for oneself; to do what expresses one's distinctive interests or talents; to do as one chooses.
- 06
do the decent thing
To take the most honorable or appropriate course of action, even if is not necessarily in the person's own interests.
- 07
do the right thing
To do what is ethical or just.
- 08
down to a fine art
To a point of exceptional proficiency.
Last updated August 10, 2026