By chance
Example: I met my old friend by chance at the park.
Definition
"By chance" means occurring or happening without intention, planning, or apparent cause. It describes events or situations that happen unexpectedly or accidentally, such as meeting someone without prior arrangement or encountering something in a random manner.
Etymology
The phrase "by chance" originates from the Old French word 'cheance,' meaning 'falling, accident, fortune,' which in turn comes from the Latin 'cadentia,' meaning 'falling.' The phrase reflects the idea of events 'falling' or happening unexpectedly. Did you know that "by chance" has long been used in English literature to describe serendipitous or accidental occurrences?
Learn to use this expression actively
"By chance" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (A2) - set 1", containing 104 commonly used expressions.
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