a higher probability

USAGE SUMMARY

"a higher probability" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the chance or likelihood that something might occur. For example, "There is a higher probability that the weather tomorrow will be sunny compared to today."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Higher substitution rates, in turn, mean a higher probability of destroying or creating a TFBS.

Genome Biology and Evolution

"It suggests a higher probability of lying," he said.

The New York Times

They have a higher probability of going to university and finishing their course".

The Guardian

He has a higher probability of surviving in the United States.

The New Yorker

By striking an accord with some creditors beforehand, these debtors have a higher probability of surviving and reorganizing.

The New York Times

"It seems that the market is giving it a higher probability than before".

The New York Times

For example, there is a higher probability of alcohol abuse among individuals with SAD.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Moody's analyst, Mary Anne Low, said "severe pressure" on the coal industry meant there was a higher probability that contracts would not be renewed or would end early.

The Guardian

We believe there is a higher probability of Apollo raising its offer, though whether it will be enough for a recommendation by the board is less certain.

The Guardian - Business

Meaning they would have a higher probability of buying tickets.

TechCrunch

Shorter packets have a higher probability of success.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing statistical outcomes or predictions, use "a higher probability" to clearly indicate an increased likelihood of an event occurring. For example, "Due to the improved weather conditions, there is a higher probability of a successful harvest."

Common error

Avoid using "a higher probability" when you mean certainty. Probability implies a chance or likelihood, not a guaranteed outcome. Instead of saying "There's a higher probability it will rain," if you know it will rain, say "It will definitely rain."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a higher probability" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct. It indicates an increased likelihood of a particular outcome or event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a higher probability" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express an increased likelihood of something happening. According to Ludwig, the phrase is perfectly valid for use in written English. It's commonly found in scientific, news, and business contexts, reflecting its utility in reasoned assessments and statistical discussions. While there are several alternatives like "a greater likelihood" or "an increased chance", it's crucial to differentiate between probability and certainty. Be mindful of the context to use this phrase effectively, indicating an elevated chance rather than a guaranteed outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a greater likelihood

Replaces 'probability' with 'likelihood', emphasizing the chance of something happening.

a greater chance

Substitutes 'probability' with the more informal 'chance', indicating a better possibility.

an increased likelihood

Uses 'increased' instead of 'higher', focusing on the augmentation of the possibility.

an elevated probability

Employs 'elevated' to suggest that the probability has been raised or intensified.

a stronger possibility

Replaces 'probability' with 'possibility', emphasizing the potential for something to occur.

a more significant likelihood

Highlights the importance of the likelihood rather than just its level.

a heightened chance

Uses 'heightened' to indicate an elevated level of chance or opportunity.

a greater propensity

Replaces 'probability' with 'propensity', suggesting a natural inclination or tendency.

a superior likelihood

Implies that the likelihood is not just higher, but also better or more advantageous.

an amplified chance

Indicates that the chance has been made larger or more significant.

FAQs

How do I use "a higher probability" in a sentence?

Use "a higher probability" to indicate an increased chance of something occurring. For example, "Investing in renewable energy sources has "a higher probability" of yielding long-term benefits than relying solely on fossil fuels."

What are some alternatives to "a higher probability"?

You can use phrases such as "a greater likelihood", "a greater chance", or "an increased possibility" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the probability is higher" instead of "a higher probability"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "A higher probability" is often used to compare one probability to another, while "the probability is higher" typically refers to a specific probability that has increased.

What's the difference between ""a higher probability"" and "a higher potential"?

"A higher probability" refers to the increased likelihood of an event occurring, while "a higher potential" suggests a greater capacity for something to develop or succeed. Probability deals with chances, while potential deals with capabilities.