Chance upon Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To find or meet someone or something by accident, without planning or expecting it.
Usage & Nuances
Slightly formal and less commonly used in casual speech than 'come across' or 'run into'. Typically used for unexpectedly discovering things or meeting people, often in written or narrative English. Usually followed by the thing or person found: 'chance upon an old friend', 'chance upon a rare book'.
Example Sentences
I chanced upon an old photo while cleaning my room.
basic
We chanced upon a small café on our walk.
basic
He chanced upon his childhood friend in the market.
basic
You never know what you'll chance upon in a place like this.
natural
She loves old bookstores, hoping to chance upon a rare treasure.
natural
We didn't plan it—we just chanced upon the festival downtown.
natural