chance upon
Upper Intermediate (B2)neutral
To find something or meet someone without planning to — it just happens.
"The researchers chanced upon a previously unknown cave system during a routine survey."
Hear it in context
This Mountain Village in Japan Should Be Dying. Why Isn't It?
Abroad in Japan · 9:11
we're extremely lucky to chance upon a homestay
Driving Alone Across the World’s Longest Minefield
Eva zu Beck · 23:35
easy to chance upon a very sharp rock that could slash your tire.