on the off chance

Meaning

1. Oxford100% of films

   because of the possibility of sth happening, although it is unlikely

   On the off chance it will ever be needed in the courtroom.

   You mean you ve served in a house like this one before

In the movies · 3

• On the off chance it will ever be needed in the courtroom.Se7en1995
• You mean you ve served in a house like this one beforeThe Others2001
• Oh, and on the off chance there are any astronomy aficionados amongst you, the North Star is that one.Django Unchained2012
• Or maybe just have a conversation on the off-chance...Remember Me2010
• The truth is that we just come by on the off chanceThe Others2001
• Just thought I'd ask on the off chance, you know, like, "faint heart" and that.The Banshees of Inisherin2022
• I put it off every single chance I got. But now...Cast Away2000
• Here we are as the two biggest rivals in football square off for their chance to etch their names in sports history.The Game Plan2007

From the same entry

• as chance would have it
• be in with a chance
• by any chance
• the chances are
• chance would be a fine thing
• give half a chance
• no chance
• stand a chance
• take a chance
• take your chances
• not have a cat in hell's chance
• not have a dog's chance

More idioms

• out of action
• out of thin air
• that'll be the day
• within reach
• your fair share of
• be to be expected
• on shoulders
• the real thing
• wait for it
• on the spot
• at your disposal
• move heaven and earth