a low probability of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a low probability of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or chance of an event occurring, particularly in statistical or scientific contexts. Example: "There is a low probability of rain tomorrow, so we can proceed with our outdoor plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Philadelphia's lower bond rating still signifies a low probability of default.

The New York Times

The U.S. Geological Survey estimates a low probability of fatalities from the earthquake.

The Washington Post

But it's a low probability of a really friggin' amazing event happening.

The Washington Post

Delete variables having a low probability of occurrence and a low potential impact.

Harvard Business Review

Those in the right-hand column have a low probability of being fully preserved over time.

Cornell University

On Feb. 20 the department said that "there is a low probability of attack by Iraq" on Israel.

The New York Times - Travel

"Most of what I cut had a low probability of success," he said.

The New York Times

Roberts said exploration had a low probability of success, and so the 18% uplift rate for unused credits reflected that risk.

The Guardian

United are retaining their interest, even if there is now an acceptance there is a low probability of it coming off.

The Guardian - Sport

If you want to be a barrister, you need to fork out tens of thousands of pounds with a low probability of a job at the end.

The Guardian - Opinion

Visual inspections are known to have a low probability of detection.

International Journal of Fatigue

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing risks or predictions, quantify the "low probability" with specific numbers or ranges whenever possible to provide more clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a low probability of" as a means to completely dismiss a possibility; instead, acknowledge that even low-probability events can still occur.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a low probability of" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun, typically referring to an event or outcome. It describes the degree of likelihood associated with that noun. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a low probability of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate a small chance or likelihood of something occurring. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for written English and appears frequently in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When using the phrase, consider quantifying the probability for clarity and avoid using it to dismiss possibilities entirely. Alternatives like "a small chance of" or "little likelihood of" can be used depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a low likelihood of

This alternative use "likelihood" instead of "probability" but preserves the structure.

a small chance of

This alternative uses "chance" instead of "probability", implying a less formal context.

a slim chance of

Using "slim" emphasizes the low likelihood even more strongly than "small".

a slight possibility of

This phrase replaces "probability" with "possibility" and uses "slight" to indicate a low degree.

a remote chance of

"Remote" suggests that the event is unlikely to happen and distant in possibility.

little likelihood of

This alternative uses the noun "likelihood" instead of "probability", making the phrasing slightly more formal.

a minimal risk of

This shifts the focus to the risk associated with an event, implying a low chance of it occurring.

a negligible probability of

"Negligible" implies that the probability is so small it can be disregarded.

a scarce probability of

"Scarce" indicates that the likelihood is rare or limited.

an unlikely prospect of

This phrase substitutes "probability" with "prospect", suggesting a less optimistic view of the future event.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "a low probability of" in a sentence?

You can use "a low probability of" to describe an event that is unlikely to occur, such as: "There is "a low probability of" rain today" or "The treatment has "a low probability of" side effects".

What are some alternatives to "a low probability of"?

Alternatives include "a small chance of", "a slim chance of", or "little likelihood of". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "a low probability of" or "a small probability of"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "A low probability of" is slightly more common in formal or technical contexts, while "a small probability of" may sound more conversational.

What does it mean when something has "a low probability of" occurring?

When an event has "a low probability of" occurring, it means that it is unlikely to happen. However, it does not mean that it is impossible; even events with a low probability can still occur.