Defn: Probability.
Note: The mathematical expression, of a chance is the ratio of frequency with which an event happens in the long run. If an event may happen in a ways and may fail in b ways, and each of these a + b ways is equally likely, the chance, or probability, that the event will happen is measured by the fraction a/(a + b), and the chance, or probability, that it will fail is measured by b/(a + b). Chance comer, one who, comes unexpectedly. — The last chance, the sole remaining ground of hope. — The main chance, the chief opportunity; that upon which reliance is had, esp. self-interest. — Theory of chances, Doctrine of chances (Math.), that branch of mathematics which treats of the probability of the occurrence of particular events, as the fall of dice in given positions. — To mind one's chances, to take advantage of every circumstance; to seize every opportunity.
CHANCE
Chance, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Chanced; p. pr. & vb. n. Chancing.]
Defn: To happen, come, or arrive, without design or expectation.
"Things that chance daily." Robynson (More's Utopia).
If a bird's nest chance to be before thee. Deut. xxii. 6.
I chanced on this letter. Shak.
Note: Often used impersonally; as, how chances it
How chance, thou art returned so soon Shak.
CHANCE
Chance, v. t.
1. To take the chances of; to venture upon; — usually with it as object. Come what will, I will chance it. W. D. Howells.
2. To befall; to happen to. [Obs.] W. Lambarde.
CHANCE
Chance, a.
Defn: Happening by chance; casual.