main chance

Noun

main chance

1. (obsolete) A venture which stands the best likelihood of success; a risk; fortune (of a person, country etc.).
2. One's primary interest in life; livelihood, especially an opportunity to benefit oneself.
   • The idea is but too prevalent in almost every community, that a man has discharged his duties as a citizen, well enough, if he minds his own business and does not meddle with the affairs of his neighbours. "Look out for Number One," is a great fundamental maxim, which is in every body's mouth, and...1846, “Moral Responsibilities”, in The British Friend: A Monthly Journal Chiefly Devoted to the Interests of the Society of Friends, volume 4, number 8, page 204
   • Carneades, a worthy successor of Arcelisaus as head of the Academy, was one of three philosophers sent by Athens on a diplomatic mission to Rome in the year 156 BC. He saw no reason why his ambassadorial dignity should interfere with the main chance, so he announced a course of lectures in Rome.1946, Bertrand Russell, A History of Western Philosophy, I.26