Chinaman’s chance: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘Chinaman's chance’ mean?
The idiom Chinaman's chance means having little or no chance of success. It is considered offensive and racially derogatory.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "no chance" means there is no possibility or opportunity for something to happen or be successful.
The idiom "keep one's chin up" means to remain cheerful and optimistic in a difficult or challenging situation. It encourages maintaining a positive attitude and not allowing oneself to be discouraged or defeated by adversity.
The idiom "in with a chance" means having a realistic opportunity or possibility of achieving success in a particular situation.
The idiom "in one's dreams" means that something is unlikely or impossible to happen. It is often used to dismiss someone's unrealistic or fanciful ideas.
The idiom "hope against hope" means to continue hoping for something despite there being little or no chance of it happening.
The idiom "here goes nothing" is used when someone is about to attempt something with little expectation of success. It conveys a sense of uncertainty or resignation about the outcome of the action.
The idiom "have had one's chips" means to be defeated or to have failed, often resulting in a negative outcome or consequence. It is commonly used to express the idea of someone being at the end of their chances or opportunities.
The idiom "have more chins than a Chinese phone book" refers to someone who is significantly overweight and has multiple rolls of fat on their neck or chin area.
The idiom *ghetto lottery* refers to the perception that living in a disadvantaged neighborhood has a high likelihood of resulting in unfortunate events or circumstances, often related to crime or poverty.
The idiom "fighting chance" means a reasonable opportunity or possibility to succeed, despite facing difficult or unfavorable circumstances.
The Odds Stacked Against
The idiom "Chinaman's chance" is a derogatory expression that originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. It is believed to have emerged during the California Gold Rush in the 1850s when thousands of Chinese immigrants migrated to the region in search of economic opportunities. However, they faced rampant discrimination and were often treated as second-class citizens. This discriminatory idiom reflects the unfavorable odds Chinese immigrants were given in various aspects of their lives, including legal matters and economic opportunities. Its usage perpetuates harmful stereotypes about the Chinese population, implying that they have little to no chance of success or survival in the face of difficult circumstances.
The idiom "dog's chance" is related to "Chinaman's chance" as it shares a similar meaning. Like "Chinaman's chance," "dog's chance" conveys the idea of having very low or no chance of succeeding. It suggests that the odds are stacked against someone, making success unlikely. Both idioms highlight the disadvantage and unjust treatment faced by certain individuals in society, whether based on their race or other factors. These idioms serve as reminders of the challenges and barriers that people can encounter due to discrimination or bias.
The idiom "no chance" is another related expression that emphasizes the absence of any possibility for success or positive outcome. When someone says "no chance," they are expressing a belief that the likelihood of achieving a particular goal is absolutely zero. This idiom is similar to "Chinaman's chance" and "dog's chance" in conveying a sense of hopelessness and impossibility. It underscores the idea that some individuals may face insurmountable obstacles that prevent them from achieving their desired outcomes.
On the other hand, the idiom "fat chance" is a sarcastic expression that challenges the notion of success or positive outcome. When someone says "fat chance," they are essentially implying that the likelihood of something happening is extremely slim or improbable. Unlike "Chinaman's chance," "dog's chance," or "no chance," "fat chance" carries a tone of irony or skepticism. It suggests that the speaker believes the chances of success are highly unlikely, but there is still a small possibility, however remote. This idiom highlights the importance of context and tone in understanding the intended meaning behind expressions.
It is important to recognize that idioms like "Chinaman's chance" and its related expressions can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce discriminatory attitudes. While these idioms may have historical origins, their usage in contemporary discourse is generally discouraged. They fail to acknowledge the diversity, resilience, and potential for success that individuals from all backgrounds possess. Language is a powerful tool that can shape perceptions and attitudes, and it is crucial to use it responsibly and inclusively.
Efforts have been made to challenge and dismantle the use of such derogatory idioms. Society has become more aware of the importance of promoting equality and respecting diverse cultures. As a result, expressions like "Chinaman's chance" are now widely recognized as offensive and inappropriate. However, it is worth noting that language evolves over time, and remnants of discriminatory terms can still be found in our collective consciousness. It is a continuing process to educate ourselves, foster cultural awareness, and confront discriminatory language and behaviors.
The existence of the idiom "Chinaman's chance" serves as a reminder of the historical mistreatment and discrimination faced by Chinese immigrants in America. It prompts us to reflect on how societal attitudes have evolved and the progress we still need to make in promoting inclusivity and equality. By actively rejecting harmful idioms and working towards a more just and inclusive society, we can ensure that everyone has a fair chance at success.
Example usage
1. Despite his determination, the underdog team had a Chinaman's chance of winning the championship.
2. The small startup had a Chinaman's chance of securing the contract against established industry giants.
3. She knew that she had a Chinaman's chance of convincing her parents to let her go on the trip with her friends.
More "Slang" idioms
