Толковый словарь английского языка Oxford English Reference - odds

n.pl. 1 the ratio between the amounts staked by the parties to a bet, based on the expected probability either way. 2 the chances or balance of probability in favour of or against some result (the odds are against it; the odds are that it will rain). 3 the balance of advantage (the odds are in your favour; won against all the odds). 4 an equalizing allowance to a weaker competitor. 5 a difference giving an advantage (it makes no odds). Phrases and idioms at odds (often foll. by with) in conflict or at variance. by all odds certainly. lay (or give) odds offer a bet with odds favourable to the other better. odds and ends miscellaneous articles or remnants. odds-on a state when success is more likely than failure, esp. as indicated by the betting odds. over the odds above a generally agreed price etc. take odds offer a bet with odds unfavourable to the other better. what's the odds? colloq. what does it matter? Etymology: app. pl. of ODD n.: cf. NEWS