Chances are Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈtʃænsəz/, /ˈtʃænsɪz/ /ˈɑɹ/, /ɝ

CHAN-siz AR, CHAN-siz ER

UK

tʃˈɑːnsɪz/ /ɛə

CHAN-siz AIR

Definition

This informal expression means that something is very likely to happen or is probably true.

Usage & Nuances

Used mainly in speaking and informal writing. Typically starts sentences: "Chances are, it will rain tomorrow." Similar to 'probably' or 'most likely.' Not used for past events; focus is on current/future likelihood.

• Spanish: lo más probable es que - seguramente
• Portuguese (BR): provavelmente - é provável que
• Portuguese (PT): provavelmente - é provável que
• Chinese (Simplified): 很可能 - 十有八九
• Chinese (Traditional): 很可能 - 十之八九
• Hindi: संभावना है कि - मुमकिन है
• Arabic: الأغلب أن - من المحتمل أن
• Bengali: সম্ভাবনা আছে - অধিকাংশ ক্ষেত্রে
• Russian: скорее всего - вероятнее всего
• Japanese: たぶん - おそらく
• Vietnamese: có khả năng - nhiều khả năng
• Korean: 아마 - 가능성이 크다
• Turkish: büyük ihtimalle
• Urdu: امکان ہے - غالباً
• Indonesian: kemungkinan besar - bisa jadi

Example Sentences

Chances are it will rain later today.

basic

Chances are she forgot her keys again.

basic

Chances are you will like this movie.

basic

If you leave your food out, chances are the dog will eat it.

natural

Chances are, he’s already heard the news by now.

natural

I’m not sure, but chances are we’ll finish early.

natural