defy odds
Succeed against probability
To defy odds is to succeed despite being unlikely to do so.
The phrase implies overcoming unfavorable circumstances or predictions: She defied the odds and made a full recovery.
Someone who defies the odds beats expectations, whether in medicine, sports, business, or life generally.
The expression often carries a note of admiration for persistence or resilience.
- overcomePrevail against difficulty
- triumphResounding, celebrated victory
- underdogPresumed loser beforehand
- dark horseUnlikely but possible winner
- impossibleIncapable of occurring
miracle · persevere · never say die · longshot · fighting chance · beat · conquer · survivor · unlikely · resilient · against · struggle · uphill battle · warrior · champion · breakthrough · come from behind · fearless
- motivational phrasesdream big, try harder, no excuses, overcome, improve
- do the impossiblemove mountains, break barriers, miracle, feat, breakthrough
- going all outgo all out, max out, go hard, full throttle, all in