&fist; 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, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Chanced (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Chancing.] 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.
Often used impersonally; as, how chances it?
How chance, thou art returned so soon?
Shak.
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.