The correct spelling of the phrase "be chance" might be confusing to some, but it is pronounced as /biː tʃæns/. The word "be" is spelled as it is, while "chance" is spelled with the letters "ch" representing the phoneme /tʃ/. The phrase is commonly used in the sense of "by chance" or "by coincidence." It may seem like an odd spelling combination, but once you know the correct pronunciation, you'll have no trouble using this phrase with clarity.
The term "be chance" is an idiomatic expression that refers to something happening or occurring purely by chance or coincidence. It underscores the lack of planning or intention behind a specific event or outcome. This phrase implies that the situation in question is not the result of any deliberate action or design, but rather an unexpected occurrence that could not have been predicted or anticipated.
When something is said to "be chance," it suggests that there is no predetermined cause or purpose behind it, and it is solely a product of random circumstances. It emphasizes the concept of serendipity or happenstance, highlighting the element of unpredictability in life.
For example, if someone were to stumble upon a valuable antique while cleaning out their attic, they could say that they found it "by chance." This indicates that they discovered it unexpectedly, without actively searching for or anticipating such a find.
In summary, when something is said to "be chance," it implies that it has transpired without any premeditated intention or external agency, emphasizing the random and fortuitous nature of its occurrence.
There does not seem to be a specific word "be chance" in English etymology. However, "by chance" is a common phrase that means something happens unintentionally or unexpectedly.
The etymology of "by chance" can be understood by examining the origins of the individual words.
- "By" is a preposition in English that has Germanic roots, ultimately derived from the Old English word "bi" meaning "near" or "by the side of". It has a similar form in other Germanic languages as well.
- "Chance" comes from the Old French word "chance" which means "luck" or "fortune". It entered English in the 14th century and refers to an event or situation that occurs without any known cause or plan.
Together, "by chance" implies that something occurs without any intended design or purpose, often referring to a fortunate or unexpected event.