Definition of chance on

The phrase "chance on" is a derivation of the Old English word "ceosan," which originally referred to falling accidentally or incidentally upon something unexpected. It later transformed into the Middle English term "chanceen," meaning to happen or come about by chance. The expression "chance on" evolved from this middle English term in the late 17th century. It was first documented in the works of the English poet and diplomat John Dryden, who used it to refer to the brief or unexpected encounter between people or things. The phrase "chance on" still retains its original meaning of occurrence by accident or chance, implying that the occurrence is not predetermined or planned in advance. In summary, "chance on" is a relatively recent phrasal verb, emerging in the late 17th century, that evolved from older English words, demonstrating the roots of modern English in its historical forms.