🍀 Chinaman’s Chance: Against All Odds 🀄
Definition:
A “Chinaman’s chance” is an old idiom meaning no chance at all; a very slim chance. It emerged from a darker period in history, with roots tracing back to racial prejudice and hardship faced by Chinese immigrants in the United States during the 19th century.
Similar Terms:
- Snowball’s chance in hell
- A fat chance
- When pigs fly
- One in a million
Synonyms:
- Slim to none
- Impossible odds
- No dice
- Not a ghost of a chance
Antonyms:
- A sure thing
- A breeze
- A walk in the park
- No sweat
Historical Context:
The phrase “Chinaman’s chance” originated in the late 1800s, during a time when Chinese immigrants were the target of significant discrimination and violence, especially in the American West. They faced harsh labor conditions and were often marginalized in society.
Humor-filled quote: “Never tell me the odds.” - Han Solo 🏴☠️
Literature and Media References:
Books:
- “America’s Chinatowns: A History of Resistance and Resilience” by Wendy L. Rouse
- “East to America: Korean American Life Stories” by Elaine H. Kim and Eui-Yung Yu
Movies:
- “Chinatown” (1974) 🎥
- “American Pastime” (2007)
Songs:
- “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor 📯
- “No Diggity” by Blackstreet 🎶
Poetry:
- “The New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus (Although not directly related, this poem speaks to immigrant struggles and is inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of hope for many.)
Conclusion:
While the term itself is a relic of a past filled with bigotry, its current usage can remind us of the hardships that have been overcome by various communities over time.
Inspirational Thought:
“Understanding the past allows us to reshape our future—with respect, resilience, and realism.”
— Ivy P. Penname, October 2023
