fluke

In Northern Ireland and Ireland (at least), a fluke (pronounced flook) is a verb meaning to win against the odds. It can also be used as a noun meaning something won against the odds or someone who wins that way.

Fluke tends to be a positive appreciation of good luck, rather than a denial of the win. It can be used to playfully reject someone's win though, or to be humble about one's own win.

(In appreciation of someone winning): "Whoa, flukey. Well done!"

(In bemused disbelief that someone won a football game): "Jeez, how did you score that goal? You weren't even kicking it right. What a fluke!"

(In happy humility after winning): "Thanks. It was just a fluke really".

(When someone beats you in a game, but you're convinced you'll win next time): "Fluke! Let's go again."

(To tell a story without it seeming boastful): "Well, the whole thing was a fluke really. Back in early Spring, I..."

51👍 31👎