Fat Chance
Definition: Practically no chance at all. Despite “fat” typically meaning “good” in contexts like “fat paycheck,” here it’s used ironically to denote a slim or nonexistent possibility.
Synonyms:
- Chinaman’s chance
- Snowball’s chance in hell
- When pigs fly
- Not in a million years
Antonyms:
- Sure thing
- Safe bet
- Dead cert
- Done deal
Humorous Quote:
“Fat chance we’ll ever understand human nature. But that’s what makes it funny!” – Rita Riddle
Proverb:
“As likely as finding a needle in a haystack.”
References in Literature and Culture:
- P.G. Wodehouse, “Laughing Gas”: This term isn’t just for casual conversation. It finds its way into the wry humor of Wodehouse’s marvellously ironic world: “A fat chance, of course. I should have known his psychology better.”
- “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams: Be prepared for countless fat chances where heroes narrowly escape incredible odds.
- “Seinfeld” (TV Show): Jerry and friends frequently experience “fat chances” in their comical misadventures.
Song:
- “Against All Odds” by Phil Collins: Though not explicitly mentioning “fat chance,” sentiments align perfectly with facing insurmountable obstacles.
Poem:
- “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost: Ponder the “fat chance” roads when taking paths less travelled.
Movie:
- “Dumb and Dumber”, specifically Lloyd’s “So you’re telling me there’s a chance?” capturing the epitomic “fat chance” humor.
Related Expressions:
- “When pigs fly”: Oh sure, and pigs will sprout wings and perform aerial acrobatics! (Meaning, it’ll never happen.)
- “Snowball’s chance in hell”: Idea of a snowball surviving in a very hot place—hint, not going to happen.
### Which of these means "highly unlikely"?
- [x] Snowball's chance in hell
- [ ] Piece of cake
- [ ] Sure thing
- [ ] Done deal
> **Explanation:** "Snowball's chance in hell" denotes something that has almost zero chance of happening - not the situation you'd bet your life savings on.
### True or False: 'Fat chance' means you have a good chance of succeeding.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** Ironically, "fat chance" means you have little to no chance of succeeding. Delightfully pessimistic, right?
### What is a synonym for 'fat chance'?
- [x] Chinaman’s chance
- [ ] Dead cert
- [ ] Sure thing
- [ ] Done deal
> **Explanation:** "Chinaman’s chance" is another way of saying there’s almost no chance. Don’t expect to duck through this loophole!
### Which phrase does NOT mean "highly improbable"?
- [ ] When pigs fly
- [ ] Fat chance
- [ ] Snowball’s chance in hell
- [x] Safe bet
> **Explanation:** "Safe bet" means something reliable, which contrasts directly with the improbability emphasis of other options.
### Which phrase suggests an ironic twist?
- [ ] Snowball’s chance
- [x] Fat chance
- [ ] Sure thing
- [ ] Done deal
> **Explanation:** "Fat chance" is highly ironic; it’s not about positivity but its chunky opposite: improbable outcomes. Don't get hopeful!
And remember, sometimes a ‘fat chance’ might just be comedy in disguise. Keep laughing, keep learning.
Warm Regards, L. M. Hilarity
