a distinct probability

USAGE SUMMARY

'a distinct probability' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate that the chance of something happening is significant, but not certain. For example, "There is a distinct probability that we will be able to go on vacation this summer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

That Venus and Serena Williams wound up in the same quarter of the bracket made the prospect of an all-Serbian women's final between top-seeded Ana Ivanovic and No. 2 Jelena Jankovic a distinct probability.

The New York Times

That seems a distinct probability in the circumstances, with the presidents of the Italian Football Federation, Serie A, the Players Associationn and the national Olympic Committee all quick to join in condemning events on Sunday.

The Guardian - Sport

In fact, there's a distinct probability that kids will like this thing, which was product-tested with tweens and teens.

TechCrunch

There is a distinct probability that the law will save you less money than you will spend on accountants trying to understand it.

Forbes

The rating scale model presupposes that, along the latent characteristic, each response category has a distinct probability of being chosen more than any other category for a specific item.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

Jung wrote "The Undiscovered Self" in the 1950's, at a time when he warned that nuclear war was a distinct probability if people and nation states continued to project our worst traits onto our enemies, even onto our mates and partners.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

As for returning foragers, robbers have a distinct odor profile that results in an individually distinct probability of rejection.

Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology

Next, a fully adjusted model was used to evaluate the distinct probability of suffering from an anxiety or mood disorder according to the sleep-related cognitions adopted or not adopted.

Clinical interventions in aging

At least 18 different police forces are involved in their own inquiries, with the last confirmed figure being that around 350 people had initiated complaints and the distinct probability, coming up for a week later, that the figure is considerably higher now.

The Guardian - Sport

Now, six years later, Mr. Gore is Vice President of the United States and he has a much broader agenda, one that includes the distinct probability that he will run for President in 2000.

The New York Times

But there is one striking similarity: the two democracies allow for the distinct probability of selecting national leaders who win only a plurality of the popular vote nationwide; and even the possibility of winning office with less than a plurality when coming in second !

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a distinct probability" when you want to convey that something is more than just possible, but not necessarily guaranteed. It implies a noticeable chance of occurrence.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct probability" when you mean to express a certainty or near-certainty. Use stronger phrases like "highly likely" or "almost certain" in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct probability" functions as a noun phrase. It describes a specific type of likelihood, implying that the chance of something happening is noticeable and clear. Ludwig shows that this phrase is used to highlight a significant possibility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct probability" is a phrase used to indicate a notable chance of something happening. Grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing, it's often found in news, media, and scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of the phrase and its use in various reputable sources. While not as strong as "highly likely", it suggests more than a mere possibility. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended level of certainty and context. Alternative options include "a clear likelihood" or "a significant likelihood" for similar expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant likelihood

Emphasizes the importance or impact of the likelihood.

a strong possibility

Highlights the strength or degree of possibility.

a clear likelihood

Emphasizes clarity and visibility of the likelihood.

a considerable chance

Indicates a chance of notable size or importance.

a real potential

Focuses on the existing possibility for something to occur.

a tangible likelihood

Emphasizes the palpability or concreteness of the likelihood.

a noteworthy possibility

Highlights the significance or interest of the possibility.

a marked chance

Stresses the noticeable or significant nature of the chance.

an evident prospect

Stresses the clear and obvious nature of the prospect.

a definite prospect

Suggests a more concrete and assured expectation.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct probability" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinct probability" to suggest that something has a notable chance of happening. For example, "There's "a distinct probability that" the project will be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances".

What's the difference between "a distinct probability" and "a distinct possibility"?

"A distinct probability" implies a quantifiable chance or likelihood, whereas "a distinct possibility" simply suggests that something could happen without specifying the level of likelihood.

What can I say instead of "a distinct probability"?

You can use alternatives like "a clear likelihood", "a strong possibility", or "a significant likelihood" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a distinct probability" in formal writing?

Yes, "a distinct probability" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing potential outcomes or risks in a clear and objective manner. However, ensure that the level of formality aligns with the specific context and audience.