little chance
فرصة ضئيلة
Use 'little chance' to politely express that something is very unlikely to happen.
15秒了解
- Used to describe a very low probability of an event occurring.
- Softer and more polite than saying something is 'impossible'.
- Commonly followed by 'of' and a noun or '-ing' verb.
意思
This phrase describes something that is very unlikely to happen. It's like saying the odds are against you, but there is still a tiny, tiny sliver of possibility.
关键例句
3 / 6Checking the weather for a picnic
The clouds are clearing, so there is little chance of rain now.
The clouds are clearing, so there is little chance of rain now.
Discussing a promotion at work
With the budget cuts, there is little chance of a bonus this year.
With the budget cuts, there is little chance of a bonus this year.
Texting a friend about a sold-out concert
I'm in the queue, but there's little chance I'll get tickets.
I'm in the queue, but there's little chance I'll get tickets.
文化背景
The phrase reflects a Western cultural tendency toward 'understatement' and 'hedging.' Instead of making absolute claims, speakers use 'little' to soften a negative prediction, maintaining a polite social distance from total certainty.
The 'Of' Rule
Always remember to use 'of' after 'little chance' if you are adding an action, like 'little chance of going' or 'little chance of rain'.
Little vs. Few
Never say 'few chance.' Chance is uncountable here, so 'little' is the only correct partner. 'Few' is for things you can count, like apples!
15秒了解
- Used to describe a very low probability of an event occurring.
- Softer and more polite than saying something is 'impossible'.
- Commonly followed by 'of' and a noun or '-ing' verb.
What It Means
Little chance is your go-to phrase for being a realist. It means the probability of something happening is very low. You aren't saying it is impossible. You are just saying don't bet your lunch money on it. It’s that feeling when you see a massive line at a popular bakery. You know you might get a croissant, but there is little chance they’ll have any left by the time you reach the front.
How To Use It
Use it as a subject or after the verb is. You can say "There is little chance of rain." You can also use it to respond to a question. If a friend asks if you'll finish a 500-page book tonight, just say "Little chance of that!" It usually pairs with the word of followed by a noun or a verb ending in -ing. It sounds natural and flows well in conversation.
When To Use It
You can use this in almost any setting. Use it when discussing weather, sports scores, or work deadlines. It’s perfect for managing expectations. If your boss asks if a project can be done in an hour, use this phrase. It sounds more polite than a blunt "No." It shows you’ve thought about the possibility but remain skeptical. It’s the "polite pessimist" of the English language.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it if something is truly 100% impossible. If you drop a glass, there is "no chance" it will float. Little chance implies a 1% to 5% possibility. Also, avoid it in highly emotional moments where someone needs total hope. If a friend is dreaming big, saying there is little chance might make you look like a bit of a buzzkill. Use it for facts and logic, not for crushing dreams!
Cultural Background
English speakers, especially in the UK and US, often use understatement. We prefer saying little chance instead of "that will never happen." It feels less aggressive. It comes from a culture of cautious optimism. We like to leave the door open just a crack, even if we are fairly sure the answer is no. It’s a way to stay humble about the future.
Common Variations
If you want to sound more casual, use slim chance. It means the exact same thing but feels a bit more visual. For more emphasis, try very little chance. If you want to be even more dramatic, you can say fat chance. Ironically, fat chance actually means "no chance at all." English is funny like that, isn't it? Stick to little chance to stay clear and understood.
使用说明
This is a neutral collocation suitable for both spoken and written English. Be careful not to use 'few chance,' as chance is treated as an uncountable noun in this context.
The 'Of' Rule
Always remember to use 'of' after 'little chance' if you are adding an action, like 'little chance of going' or 'little chance of rain'.
Little vs. Few
Never say 'few chance.' Chance is uncountable here, so 'little' is the only correct partner. 'Few' is for things you can count, like apples!
The Sarcastic 'Fat Chance'
In English, 'fat chance' actually means 'zero chance.' It's a sarcastic way to say something is impossible. Don't get confused!
例句
6The clouds are clearing, so there is little chance of rain now.
The clouds are clearing, so there is little chance of rain now.
Used to predict a weather outcome based on observation.
With the budget cuts, there is little chance of a bonus this year.
With the budget cuts, there is little chance of a bonus this year.
A professional way to deliver disappointing news.
I'm in the queue, but there's little chance I'll get tickets.
I'm in the queue, but there's little chance I'll get tickets.
Managing a friend's expectations via text.
They are down by 40 points; there is little chance of a miracle now!
They are down by 40 points; there is little chance of a miracle now!
Using the phrase to highlight a lopsided score.
There is little chance that the experiment will yield different results.
There is little chance that the experiment will yield different results.
Used to state a logical conclusion in a formal setting.
I dropped my ring in the ocean; there is little chance of finding it.
I dropped my ring in the ocean; there is little chance of finding it.
Expressing sadness or resignation about a lost object.
自我测试
Choose the correct preposition to follow the phrase.
There is little chance ___ winning if we don't practice.
In English, 'chance' is almost always followed by 'of' when describing the likelihood of an event.
Select the most natural word to complete the sentence.
I'll try to call him, but there is ___ chance he will answer at this hour.
While 'small' is grammatically okay, 'little chance' is a much more common and natural collocation.
🎉 得分： /2
视觉学习工具
Formality of 'Little Chance'
Using 'Slim chance' with friends.
Slim chance, buddy!
Standard everyday use of 'Little chance'.
There is little chance of traffic.
Using 'Minimal probability' in reports.
There is minimal probability of error.
Where to use 'Little Chance'
Weather Forecasts
Little chance of snow.
Office Deadlines
Little chance of finishing early.
Sports & Games
Little chance of a comeback.
Daily Errands
Little chance the shop is open.
常见问题
10 个问题No, it means it is very unlikely but still possible. If it were impossible, you would say no chance.
Yes, small chance is perfectly fine. However, little chance sounds slightly more natural in most conversations.
Absolutely. It is a professional way to manage expectations without being too negative. For example: There is little chance of meeting the Friday deadline.
Using little (without 'a') sounds more negative, meaning 'not much.' Adding a makes it sound slightly more optimistic, like a little chance (there is some hope).
You must use the -ing form of the verb after of. For example: little chance of winning or little chance of passing.
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss, your teacher, or your best friend without sounding weird.
Fat chance is a slang, sarcastic way of saying there is absolutely no chance. Little chance is literal and more polite.
Yes, you can say Little chance remains for the team. However, it is more common to start with There is...
The most common mistake is saying little chance to... instead of little chance of.... Always stick with of!
Not really! Both American and British speakers use little chance frequently in the same way.
相关表达
Slim chance
A very small possibility; almost identical to little chance.
Against the odds
When something is very unlikely to happen but you try anyway.
A long shot
An attempt or guess that has very little chance of succeeding.
Highly unlikely
A slightly more formal way to say there is little chance.
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