Ghost of a chance: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Ghost of a chance” mean?

"Ghost of a chance" means there is a very small possibility or likelihood.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I have a ghost of a chance of winning the lottery.

Example

There's only a ghost of a chance that he'll show up to the meeting.

Example

She has a ghost of a chance of getting accepted into that prestigious university

Is “Ghost of a chance” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Ghost of a chance” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Ghost of a chance” effectively in context?

You can use "Ghost of a Chance" to describe a situation where there is a very small possibility or likelihood of something happening. It emphasizes the slim chances of success or the unlikeliness of an outcome. For example, if someone asks you if you think they will win the lottery, you might say, 'You have a ghost of a chance.'

• 1. Lottery

  I have a ghost of a chance of winning the lottery.

• 2. Meeting

  There's only a ghost of a chance that he'll show up to the meeting.

• 3. University Acceptance

  She has a ghost of a chance of getting accepted into that prestigious university.

Similar phrases to “Ghost of a chance”:

Slim chance

A very small possibility or likelihood

Example

There's a slim chance that she'll be able to make it to the party.

Long shot

An attempt or possibility that is unlikely to succeed

Example

It's a long shot, but I'm going to try to convince him to change his mind.

Fighting chance

A small but real possibility of success

Example

With some hard work, she might have a fighting chance of getting the promotion.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Ghost of a chance” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Ghost of a Chance" is unknown.

Is “Ghost of a chance” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Ghost of a Chance" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the idea of a very small possibility or likelihood.

What tone does “Ghost of a chance” have?

"Ghost of a Chance" conveys a tone of skepticism or doubt. It suggests that the chances of something happening are extremely low or unlikely.

Can “Ghost of a chance” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Ghost of a Chance" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of a very small possibility. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He has a ghost of a chance of winning the competition.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'You have a "ghost of a chance"!' to imply the unlikelihood of success.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• barely a possibility
• almost no chance
• unlikely outcome
• remote possibility
• slight hope

Antonyms

• good chance
• high probability
• likely outcome
• strong possibility
• sure bet