PhrasesHub

Main chance

    Definitions

      • seize an opportunity
        To take advantage of a good opportunity to achieve success or gain an advantage

      • discourage someone
        Advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit

    Examples of Main chance

    • Sarah has been working at the company for several years, but she's been waiting for her main chance to be promoted to a higher position.

      In this example, "main chance" is used to refer to the opportunity or chance that someone believes will lead to greater success or advancement. Sarah has been working hard at her job, hoping that her efforts will eventually pay off and result in a promotion.

    • The singer struggled early in her career, but she's been waiting for her main chance to break into the music industry and become a major star.

      In this example, "main chance" is again used to refer to the opportunity that someone is hoping will result in success. The singer has faced obstacles and challenges early in her career, but she's continuing to work and build her skills, waiting for the right opportunity to break into the music industry.

    • The startup company has been making steady progress, but they're still waiting for their main chance to secure a major investment and take their business to the next level.

      In this example, "main chance" is used to refer to the opportunity that the startup company believes will lead to significant growth and success. While they've made progress so far, they're still working to attract the investment they need to take their business to the next level.

    • The athlete has been training hard for years, but they're still waiting for their main chance to win the championship and become a star in their sport.

      In this example, "main chance" is used to refer to the opportunity that the athlete believes will lead to success at the highest level of competition. While they've been working hard to improve their skills, they're still waiting for the right circumstances to come together and allow them to win the championship and become a star in their sport.

    • Her main chance at getting the job was when she accidentally sent her application to the wrong email address, but it ended up in the hands of the CEO.

      This is an example of the idiom "main chance" being used to describe a fortunate accident that leads to a better opportunity.

    • The team's main chance for winning the game was in the last quarter, but they let their guard down and lost their focus.

      In this example, "main chance" refers to the best opportunity for achieving a goal or success.

    • The politician's main chance of getting re-elected was by promising to answer the public's demands, but his lack of follow-through led to a loss in trust.

      This example shows that "main chance" can also be used to describe a pivotal moment in a situation where success is highly desired.

    • The salesperson's main chance of closing the deal was compromised when he failed to address the client's concerns, leading to the loss of the sale.

      Here, "main chance" is being used to explain the critical moment when success is attainable, but circumstances can be detrimental if not handled properly.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "main chance" can be used to either encourage someone to seize an opportunity or to discourage them from pursuing a fruitless task.

    Origin of "Main chance"

    The origin of the idiom "main chance" can be traced back to the 16th century. The word "main" in this context refers to something of great importance or significance, while "chance" refers to a favorable opportunity. The phrase was commonly used in the context of seizing opportunities for financial or personal gain. Over time, it has evolved to encompass a broader range of opportunities and decisions in various aspects of life.

    One possible origin of the idiom comes from the game of chess, where players must carefully consider their main chance or best move to achieve victory. Another potential origin is from the world of business, where individuals must seize their main chance to succeed in their careers or ventures. Regardless of its exact origin, the idiom "main chance" continues to be used to emphasize the importance of recognizing and seizing beneficial opportunities in life.