General
chancer
What does chancer mean?
An untrustworthy opportunist looking to get away with something.
"Don't lend him money, he's a chancer."
Origin
Hiberno-English and British slang from 'chance', meaning one who takes or pushes their chances. Long established for a cheeky opportunist or risk-taker.
Frequently asked questions
What does chancer mean in Irish slang?
It's someone who tries their luck or pushes their luck — a cheeky opportunist, sometimes a bit dodgy.
Is calling someone a chancer an insult?
It can be, but it's often half-admiring of their cheek — tone decides whether it's a dig or a laugh.
What does 'chance your arm' mean?
It means to take a risk or try your luck at something, the verb behind 'chancer'.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.
