The phrase "have a fighting chance" means having a chance of success, even if the odds are against you. Its spelling is "h æv ə ˈfaɪtɪŋ tʃæns," with each phoneme represented by a symbol in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The /h/ sound represents the beginning breath before the word, followed by the vowel /æ/, which is a short 'a' sound. The next sound is /v/, followed by the schwa /ə/, which is the most common vowel sound in English. Finally, /faɪtɪŋ/ represents the compound word 'fighting' and /tʃæns/ represents 'chance.'
When someone or something "has a fighting chance," it implies that they possess a reasonable probability or opportunity for success, even in the face of considerable challenge or adversity. The phrase originates from the concept of engaging in combat or participating in a physical confrontation, where one's odds of victory may appear slim. However, having a fighting chance suggests that despite the difficulty, there is a glimmer of hope or possibility to emerge triumphant.
In a broader sense, "having a fighting chance" can extend beyond physical combat to encompass various endeavors, such as accomplishing a goal, overcoming obstacles, or achieving success against all odds. It implies the presence of determination, resilience, and a belief in one's abilities, despite unfavorable circumstances. Individuals faced with challenging circumstances may often find solace or motivation in the idea of having a fighting chance, as it can inspire hope and encourage them to persevere.
The phrase "having a fighting chance" is commonly used in discussions involving competition, sports, or gambling, particularly when referring to underdogs or teams/individuals facing more formidable opponents. It carries an element of unpredictability, suggesting that even in seemingly imbalanced situations, unforeseen outcome possibilities exist. Consequently, having a fighting chance implies that success is not guaranteed, but it is nonetheless plausible and worth pursuing.