What it means
A casual shortening of “one chance,” used when something is possible, even if it is uncertain. It often carries a hopeful or speculative feel.
How to use it
Often paired with ある (there is) or いける (it might work). It is informal and can sound overconfident if the stakes are serious.
maybethere’s a chancepossibly
Examples in conversation
今から行けば、ワンチャン間に合うかも。
If we leave now, there’s a chance we’ll make it.
ワンチャン明日、雨降らないんじゃない？
Maybe there’s a chance it won’t rain tomorrow?
Where it comes from
A Japanese shortening of the English phrase “one chance.” Contemporary meaning is closer to “there’s a possibility” than a literal single attempt; usage varies by speaker and situation.
Related slang
Further reading
We use references to check meaning and background. Examples on this page are original.