lottery

word

/ˈɫɑtɝi/
LAH-duh-ree
/lˈɒtəɹi/
LO-tuh-ree

Definition

A lottery is a game or system in which people buy tickets and a random draw decides who wins money or prizes. It can also mean any situation where the result depends mostly on luck.

Usage & Nuances

Most often used for official prize draws: 'win the lottery', 'lottery ticket', 'lottery numbers'. It is also used figuratively in phrases like 'a postcode lottery' or 'a genetic lottery' for unfair situations decided by chance.

Example Sentences

She bought a lottery ticket at the store.

basic

His uncle won the lottery last year.

basic

They check the lottery numbers every Friday night.

basic

Getting an appointment there feels like winning the lottery.

natural

If I ever win the lottery, I'm buying a house by the sea.

natural

Honestly, getting tickets for that concert was a complete lottery.

natural