a probable future

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a probable future" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential outcomes or scenarios that are likely to occur based on current information or trends. Example: "Based on the current economic indicators, we can anticipate a probable future where inflation continues to rise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Sitting across from him in his office at the University of California, Berkeley, was Saul Perlmutter, a fellow cosmologist and a probable future Nobelist in Physics himself.

The New York Times - Magazine

He is a probable future prime minister whose party now commands 30 percent of the vote, according to a recent survey from SWG, a research institute.

The New York Times

Key, latent public opinion is, in effect, a probable future reaction by the public to a current decision or action by a public official or a government.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Fellow major label refugee Jane Siberry had set up a very similar system back in 2005, for instance, and tech commentators had been touting direct fan payment and distribution as a probable future for years.

The Guardian - Music

So much has been said to locate Obama's "historic" (oh weary moniker) inauguration day in the long sweep of American history, but we should also view it in the perspective of a probable future.

The Guardian - Opinion

Making matters worse for Ohio, McCollum played at GlenOak High School, where Ohio Coach Jon Groce recruited Kosta Koufos, a probable future N.B.A. first-round draft pick, while an assistant at Ohio State.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Likewise, the second survey concluded that although the majority claims that an increase in value of metro stations' surrounding properties is a very probable future scenario, the positive climate is all of a sudden reversed when the VCF concept is introduced in the discussion.

European Transport Research Review

The paper concludes with a summary of probable future design provisions for these composite systems.

Journal of Constructional Steel Research

The aim of the paper is to provide a number of probable future scenarios concerning the development of logistics networks (procurement, production and distribution) on a global level in the medium/long term by using a qualitative and strategic approach, and assess the strategic impacts on the EU area.

European Transport Research Review

On the basis of the economic and political situation in the other EU-15 countries, a scenario of probable future dates of definitive opening of the labour markets has been set.

European Journal of Population

If Smoltz, who has 210 victories and 154 saves, is healthy and effective, the Red Sox can line up a versatile pitcher and probable future Hall of Famer with Josh Beckett, Jon Lester and Daisuke Matsuzaka.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a probable future", ensure that you provide context or evidence to support the likelihood of the described scenario. Strengthen your argument by citing relevant data or expert opinions.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a probable future" as a guaranteed outcome. Use qualifiers like "likely", "potentially", or "expected" to maintain a nuanced and realistic perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a probable future" functions as a noun phrase, where "probable" modifies the noun "future". It describes a scenario or state that is likely to occur. Ludwig examples show it being used in discussions about potential outcomes in various fields like science, politics, and economics.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Science & Research

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a probable future" is a useful phrase for discussing likely scenarios. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically sound and appears in diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. While "a probable future" suggests likelihood, it's important not to overstate certainty and to provide supporting evidence. Consider using synonyms like "a likely future" or "a potential future" to fine-tune your message. When using this phrase, be aware of the possible misuse described above.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a likely future

Emphasizes a higher degree of certainty or expectation.

a potential future

Suggests a future that is possible but not guaranteed.

a possible future

Indicates a future that could happen, without implying likelihood.

a foreseeable future

Focuses on the ease with which the future can be predicted based on current trends.

a predictable future

Highlights the stability and anticipated nature of the future.

a prospective future

Implies a future that is being actively considered or planned for.

a coming future

Emphasizes the imminence or approach of the future.

an anticipated future

Highlights expectations and predictions regarding the future.

a projected future

Refers to a future that is extrapolated from current data and trends.

an expected future

Focuses on the expectations surrounding future developments.

FAQs

How can I use "a probable future" in a sentence?

Use "a probable future" to discuss events or conditions that are likely to occur based on current trends or available evidence. For example, "The study suggests "a probable future" where renewable energy sources dominate the market".

What are some alternatives to "a probable future"?

You can use alternatives like "a likely future", "a potential future", or "a foreseeable future" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase "a likely future" suggests a higher degree of certainty.

Is it correct to use "a probable future", or should I say "the probable future"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A probable future" refers to one possible scenario among many, while "the probable future" implies a single, most likely outcome. The choice depends on whether you're discussing one possibility or a definitive prediction.

What's the difference between "a probable future" and "a possible future"?

"A probable future" suggests that a particular outcome is likely to occur, based on current information. "A possible future", on the other hand, simply indicates that something could happen, without implying any degree of likelihood.