stand a chance

stand a chance

To have a possibility, however remote, of succeeding; to possibly be able to do something. Often used in the negative to mean the opposite. If we could just get an interception, we might stand a chance of winning this game. If that road is closed, we don't stand a chance of making it on time.
See also: chance, stand
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

stand a chance (of doing something)

to have a chance of doing something. Do you think I stand a chance of winning first place? Everyone stands a chance of catching the disease.
See also: chance, stand
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

stand a chance

Have a possibility or a hope of success, as in Do you think Mary stands a chance of finishing the marathon? or I think we stand a fair chance of seeing the Queen arrive at Buckingham Palace. This idiom was first recorded in 1796. Also see not have an earthly chance.
See also: chance, stand
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

stand a chance

COMMON
1. If someone or something stands a chance, it is possible that they will succeed. Nathan realised that their marriage hadn't stood a chance. I obviously did stand a chance, because before too long Geoff asked me to dance and we spent the rest of the evening together.
2. If someone or something does not stand a chance, they are certain to be killed, destroyed or defeated. The car exploded. She didn't stand a chance.
See also: chance, stand
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

(not) stand a chance (of doing something)

(not) have a chance (of doing something): You stand a very good chance of winning the prize. He doesn’t stand a chance with her (= she won’t want to have a relationship with him).
See also: chance, stand
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

stand a chance

To have a chance, as of gaining or accomplishing something.
See also: chance, stand
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • not have a hope in hell
  • not have a hope in hell (of doing something)
  • the done thing
  • not a hope in hell
  • not have a cat in hell's chance
  • vote of confidence
  • flip side
  • the flip side (of something)
  • the flip side of something
  • in with a shout