a probable cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a probable cause" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal contexts to refer to a reasonable basis for believing that a crime may have been committed. Example: "The police officer had a probable cause to search the vehicle after observing suspicious behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"But there is a probable cause aspect".

The New York Times

A probable cause of "anorectal bleeding" is "anger and frustration".

The New York Times - Magazine

For the first time, it says that overweight and obesity are a probable cause.

The Guardian

A probable cause of leprosy is "inability to handle life at all".

The New York Times - Magazine

A probable cause affidavit said the two had taken a suicide pact.

The Washington Post

A judge scheduled a probable cause and bail hearing for Aug. 1.

The New York Times

He was ordered to appear in court again July 24 for a probable cause hearing.

The New York Times - Sports

— ThenAgain from Maryand It was a probable cause affidavit filed in the case.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The suspect, Joshua Komisarjevsky, 27, of Cheshire, also waived his right to a probable-cause hearing.

The New York Times

Police said Pagourtzis gave a statement admitting responsibility for the shooting, according to a probable-cause affidavit filed in court.

The Washington Post

Bolivar police have released a probable-cause statement that details the unlikely events.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a probable cause" in legal contexts, ensure you can articulate the specific facts and circumstances that support the belief that a crime has been committed or that evidence of a crime exists.

Common error

Avoid using "a probable cause" to suggest a definitive link when you only have correlational evidence. "A probable cause" implies a reasonable basis for believing a causal relationship exists, not just that two things occur together.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a probable cause" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its frequent use in legal contexts, referring to a reasonable basis for believing that a crime may have been committed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a probable cause" is a noun phrase commonly used to denote a reasonable basis or credible reason for something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage across diverse contexts, notably in news, science, and legal fields. Its function involves establishing a justification, with a formality level ranging from neutral to formal. While alternatives exist, such as "a likely reason" or "a potential explanation", it's crucial to understand the specific implications of using "a probable cause", particularly in legal and scientific discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a likely reason

Replaces "cause" with "reason", offering a more general alternative.

a reasonable basis

Focuses on the rationality and justification for a belief or action.

a potential explanation

Substitutes "cause" with "explanation", emphasizing the interpretative aspect.

an apparent justification

Highlights the perceived validity or rightness of something.

a plausible motive

Replaces "probable" with "plausible" and "cause" with "motive", focusing on intent.

a conceivable source

Replaces "cause" with "source", indicating where something may have originated.

a suspected origin

Uses "suspected origin" instead of "probable cause" implying doubt or investigation.

a hypothetical trigger

Suggests a speculative event that could initiate a sequence of events.

a possible determinant

Emphasizes the role of the "cause" as a factor influencing an outcome.

a good reason

A more colloquial and general alternative to "a probable cause".

FAQs

How is "a probable cause" typically used in legal contexts?

In legal settings, "a probable cause" refers to a reasonable basis to believe that a crime has been committed or that evidence related to a crime exists. This belief must be supported by facts and circumstances known to the officer or investigator at the time.

What's a less formal way to express "a probable cause"?

Alternatives like "a likely reason" or "a good reason" can be used in less formal contexts. However, be aware that these alternatives might not carry the same legal weight or precision as "a probable cause".

How does "a probable cause" differ from "a possible cause"?

"A possible cause" indicates something that could potentially be the reason, while "a probable cause" suggests that, based on available evidence, it's more likely to be the reason. "Probable" implies a higher degree of certainty than "possible".

Can you use "a probable cause" in scientific writing?

Yes, "a probable cause" can be used in scientific writing to suggest a likely explanation for a phenomenon or result, particularly when direct proof is lacking but evidence points strongly in a certain direction. However, be sure to provide a clear argument as to why this cause is considered probable.