Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[JohnnieGibson]

Dear teachers,

Could you tell me what the difference between a chance and an opportunity is?


Thanks in advance!

[NoLeafClover]

I'm not a teacher, but I can guess that these words are synonims in their meaning of "favourable ability for someone to do something" But the word "chance" has also other meanings.

For instance, it can mean "fortuity" - some unpredicted and sudden event. For instance, something happened "by chance"
This word also means a risk. Example: games of chance = risky games, gambling.

Also, the word "chance" is also used in set expressions and you ususally cannot replace it word "opportunity". For example, even chance, fair chance, chance of success, etc.

Hope this helps
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