# lottery

/ˈɫɑtɝi/ (US) · /lˈɒtəɹi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lottery
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. gambling game

noun · CEFR B1

a game where you buy a ticket with numbers on it, and you win money if your numbers are chosen by luck.

For teachers: a scheme for the distribution of prizes by lot or chance, typically involving the purchase of numbered tickets.

- He buys a ticket for the national lottery every Saturday, hoping to win the jackpot.
- The state-run lottery generates significant revenue for public works, though critics argue it functions as a regressive tax on lower-income households.

Usage: Often used with the verbs 'play', 'win', or 'enter'.

### 2. something decided by luck

noun · CEFR B2

a situation where the result depends on luck or chance rather than hard work or skill.

For teachers: a process or event whose outcome is governed by chance or unpredictable factors.

- Finding a good parking space in this city is a complete lottery.
- Securing a place at the prestigious academy has become something of a lottery, as the number of qualified applicants far exceeds the available spots.

Usage: Commonly used in the phrase 'a bit of a lottery' or 'the postcode lottery'.

## Examples

- She won a million dollars in the national lottery.
- The city uses a lottery to decide which students get into the most popular schools.
- Securing a high-paying job in such a competitive market can feel like a lottery, where timing and connections often outweigh individual merit.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.