- odds
- odds [ adz ] noun plural **1. ) the chances of something happening:the odds of doing something: The odds of getting hit by a falling satellite are very small.(the) odds are (that) (=it is likely that): The odds are they won't succeed.the odds are in favor of something/(stacked) against something (=it is likely/unlikely to happen): The odds were always in favor of a South African victory.the odds are in someone's favor/(stacked) against someone (=they are likely/unlikely to succeed): The odds were stacked against him, but he never gave up.What are the odds...?: What are the odds Jim will show up this time?2. ) difficulties or conditions that make success unlikely:Left alone, they were fighting against overwhelming odds.against all (the) odds: We appealed our case and against all odds we finally won.3. ) the chances used for calculating how much money you will get if the person or thing you BET on wins a race or competition:I didn't bet on the horse because I didn't like the odds.give/lay/offer (someone) odds of something: They're laying odds of 5 1 against a knockout in the first round.a ) long/short odds an unlikely/likely chance of winning if you BET on a horse in a race or on the result of a competitionat odds (with)1. ) disagreeing with someone:She continued to find herself at odds with the chairman.2. ) if things are at odds with each other, they are different or opposite when they should be the same:This statement is completely at odds with what was said last week.it/something doesn't make any odds (to me) BRITISH INFORMALused for saying that something does not matter to youover the odds BRITISH INFORMALmore than the usual or expected pricewhat's the odds? BRITISH INFORMALused for saying that something does not matter
Usage of the words and phrases in modern English. 2013.