Synonym Chooser

How does the noun mischance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of mischance are adversity, misfortune, and mishap. While all these words mean "adverse fortune or an instance of this," mischance applies especially to a situation involving no more than slight inconvenience or minor annoyance.

took the wrong road by mischance

When is adversity a more appropriate choice than mischance?

The meanings of adversity and mischance largely overlap; however, adversity applies to a state of grave or persistent misfortune.

had never experienced great adversity

In what contexts can misfortune take the place of mischance?

In some situations, the words misfortune and mischance are roughly equivalent. However, misfortune may apply to either the incident or conjunction of events that is the cause of an unhappy change of fortune or to the ensuing state of distress.

never lost hope even in the depths of misfortune

When could mishap be used to replace mischance?

The words mishap and mischance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, mishap applies to an often trivial instance of bad luck.

the usual mishaps of a family vacation

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mischance Timothy Naftali, New York University historian But mischance and error plagued the U.S. effort to divert the missile crisis. Glenn Garvin, miamiherald, 18 Oct. 2015
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mischance
Noun
  • After losing her 6-year-old daughter to a tragic accident, one mother honored her child through friendship bracelets at the 2024 Era’s Tour Comments Diane Harrell lost her daughter, Isla Grace, in March 2024 after a tragic accident involving a drunk driver.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 26 Apr. 2025
  • He was charged with reckless driving, evading responsibility involving property damage, improper passing, failure to drive in the proper lane, following too closely resulting in an accident and first-degree reckless endangerment.
    Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Marking the start of the solar calendar, it’s known for its anything-goes water festivities: Participants armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses splash each other in a symbolic cleansing of sins and washing away of misfortunes that allow a fresh start in the new year.
    Lisa Wong Macabasco, Vogue, 15 Apr. 2025
  • But someone’s misfortune is always another bettor’s blessing.
    Vik Chokshi, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • While King's career has been fruitful, she's also experienced tragedy in her personal life.
    EW Staff, EW.com, 26 Apr. 2025
  • Holland was attempting a routine landing when the tragedy occurred, and was not performing any stunts, Boggs said.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 26 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Mischance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mischance. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on mischance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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