against the odds

Pronunciation: /əˈɡenst ðə ɑdz/ (American English)

Origin: This phrase combines the preposition "against" with the plural noun "odds," which comes from gambling terminology.

Meanings:

1. Despite unfavorable circumstances or a low probability of success
2. In the face of difficulty or opposition

Example Sentences:

1. Against the odds, the small startup company became a global success.
2. The patient recovered against the odds, surprising even the doctors.
3. She managed to graduate from college against the odds, despite financial struggles and family responsibilities.

Related Words:

• Synonyms: against all odds, in spite of everything, despite the obstacles
• Antonyms: with the odds, as expected

Memorizable Tricks:

• Think of a underdog sports team winning a championship "against the odds."
• Visualize someone swimming against a strong current, succeeding "against the odds."
• Remember the phrase "beating the odds," which has a similar meaning.

Usage Note: This idiomatic expression is commonly used to emphasize the difficulty of an achievement or the unlikelihood of a positive outcome.