Fighting chance Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈfaɪtɪŋ/ /ˈtʃæns

FYE-ting CHANS

UK

fˈaɪtɪŋ/ /tʃˈɑːns

FYE-ting CHAANS

Definition

A 'fighting chance' is a small but real possibility of success even though the odds are against you. It’s not guaranteed, but there is hope if you try hard.

Usage & Nuances

Usually implies determination and effort despite low odds. Found in both informal and formal English. Commonly used in phrases like 'have a fighting chance' or 'give someone a fighting chance.' Not used for guaranteed or effortless situations.

• Spanish: posibilidad (realista) - oportunidad (aunque difícil)
• Portuguese (BR): chance real - uma chance possível (apesar das dificuldades)
• Portuguese (PT): chance real - possibilidade (embora difícil)
• Chinese (Simplified): 一线希望 - 有可能成功的机会
• Chinese (Traditional): 一線希望 - 有可能成功的機會
• Hindi: कुछ हद तक संभावना - मुश्किल लेकिन संभव मौका
• Arabic: فرصة واقعية (ولو كانت صعبة)
• Bengali: সম্ভাবনা (কম হলেও) - লড়াকু সুযোগ
• Russian: шанс на успех (пусть и небольшой)
• Japanese: わずかな望み - 勝ち目
• Vietnamese: cơ hội mong manh - cơ hội chiến đấu
• Korean: 희박한 가능성 - 이길 희망
• Turkish: küçük de olsa bir şans
• Urdu: آخری امید - مشکل میں کامیابی کی تھوڑی امید
• Indonesian: peluang (meski kecil) - harapan tipis

Example Sentences

She has a fighting chance to win the race if she trains hard.

basic

Doctors say he has a fighting chance of recovery.

basic

The team still has a fighting chance to win the championship.

basic

Even though the storm is bad, we have a fighting chance if we stay together.

natural

Thanks to the new treatment, he finally has a fighting chance.

natural

Let’s give her a fighting chance to prove herself before making decisions.

natural