chance would be a fine thing

chance would be a fine thing

A phrase used in reference to something that seems unlikely to happen. Primarily heard in UK. Michael asking me to the dance? Oh sure, chance would be a fine thing! Chance'd be a fine thing, but I doubt I'll ever earn enough to afford a house in London.
See also: chance, fine, thing
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

chance would be a fine thing

People say chance would be a fine thing when there is almost no possibility of doing something they might like to do. She asked if I was going to get married. Chance would be a fine thing! boe2002
See also: chance, fine, thing
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

chance would be a fine thing

used to express a belief that something desirable that has just been mentioned is unlikely to happen. informal
See also: chance, fine, thing
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

ˈchance would be a fine thing

(British English, spoken) used to say that you would like to do something but will probably not have the opportunity: ‘Are you going on holiday this year?’ ‘Chance would be a fine thing — I can’t even afford a day trip to London!’
See also: chance, fine, thing
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • eggs is eggs
  • (as) sure as eggs (is eggs)
  • sure as eggs is eggs
  • How long is a piece of string?
  • from my cold, dead hands
  • how about
  • how/what about...?
  • fo sho
  • fosho
  • (one's) best foot forward