Chance vs Opportunity: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
While "chance" means probability or opportunity, "opportunity" refers to a chance that offers the possibility for development or success.
Memory Tip: chance = random event, opportunity = planned success
chance has /æ/ sound, opportunity has /ɒ/
chance /tʃæns/
nounA chance is an opportunity to do something.
Example:
I lost my chance to see the movie because the tickets sold out quickly.
Common patterns:
take a chance
have a chance
opportunity /ˌɑːpərˈtjuːnɪti/
nounAn opportunity is a chance to do something good or important.
Example:
She is excited because she has an opportunity to study abroad next year.
Common patterns:
have an opportunity
take an opportunity
Common Mistakes
She was excited about the chance to lead the project team.
She was excited about the opportunity to lead the project team.
The sentence refers to a specific situation that offers potential for success, which is best described as an 'opportunity'.
I had the opportunity of winning the lottery last week.
I had the chance of winning the lottery last week.
The sentence refers to a probability or likelihood, which is best described as a 'chance'.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. I lost my ____ to see the movie because the tickets sold out quickly.
2. She is excited because she has an ____ to study abroad next year.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse chance / opportunity again
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