ENGLISH
REFERENCE

take one's chance

idiom
Meaning

To act in a manner dependent on luck: to attempt to do something risky or not particularly likely to succeed.


Examples
SIMPLE

I will take my chance and apply for the job.

CONTEXTUAL

The weather looked stormy, but we decided to take our chance and go for a hike anyway.

COMPLEX

Rather than accepting the safe, predictable path offered to him, he chose to take his chance on an uncertain venture that promised far greater rewards.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    abound in one's own sense

    To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.

  2. 02

    ace up one's sleeve

    A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.

  3. 03

    act one's age

    To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.

  4. 04

    act one's age, not one's shoe size

    Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).

  5. 05

    afraid of one's own shadow

    Exceptionally timid.

  6. 06

    air one's dirty laundry in public

    To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.

  7. 07

    air one's dirty linen in public

    Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.

  8. 08

    albatross around one's neck

    A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.

Last updated July 12, 2026