You may have come across the phrase:
"May the odds be ever in your favor."
This iconic line originates from a series of books and films known as The Hunger Games.
To fully grasp the meaning of this phrase, let's break it down into its components.
May
"May" is a modal verb used here to express a wish or desire. In English, the verb following a modal verb is in its base form, without "to." For example, "It may be..." (not "It may to be..."). In this context, "may" introduces the wish or hope we have for someone.
The Odds
"The odds" refer to the chances or probability of something occurring. For instance, "The odds of winning the lottery are one in a million," which means the likelihood of winning is very low.
Ever
"Ever" is an adverb meaning always. Adverbs modify verbs or adjectives, providing additional information about place, time, manner, cause, degree, or, in this case, frequency. Here, "ever" modifies the verb "to be," indicating a perpetual state.
Favor
In American English, the word is spelled "favor," while in British English, it's "favour." When something is "in your favor," it means it works to your advantage. Thus, when "the odds are in your favor," it implies that the chances of success are on your side.
Overall Meaning
"May the odds be ever in your favor" essentially translates to "I wish that you always have the best chances of success."