a reasonable probability that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable probability that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to express a likelihood or chance of something occurring based on available evidence or reasoning. Example: "There is a reasonable probability that the project will be completed on time, given the current progress and resources available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There is a reasonable probability that this failure to disclose affected the outcome of the trial".

The New York Times

Rather, a reasonable probability that the results of the election would have been changed must be shown.

The New York Times

But Judge Sauls brushed past that provision and arbitrarily set a higher standard for intervention, calling for a "reasonable probability" that the election results would be different.

The New York Times

In a Class I recall, there is a reasonable probability that a malfunctioning medical device will cause serious health consequences or death.

The New York Times

To be eligible, inmates must be "so physically or cognitively debilitated or incapacitated that there is a reasonable probability" that they no longer present any danger to society.

The New York Times

There was, Judge Henry Pitman went on, "a reasonable probability that the jury could have found petitioner not guilty of murder" had it heard the missing testimony.

The New York Times

They must be "so physically or cognitively debilitated or incapacitated that there is a reasonable probability" that they no longer present any danger to society.

The New York Times

The office chronically failed to hand over evidence to criminal defendants when there was "a reasonable probability" that such evidence would change the outcome in a case.

The New York Times

"However, we do conclude that there is a reasonable probability that the result of his criminal trial would have been different" had the report been made available.

The New York Times

A Class I alert, which carries the highest priority, is issued when there is a "reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death," the statement said.

The New York Times

A three-member panel of the Connecticut parole board may release an inmate if it decides that there is a "reasonable probability" that a felon can "remain at liberty without violating the law" and endangering society.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a reasonable probability that", ensure the context provides sufficient evidence or reasoning to support the claim. Avoid using it speculatively without a basis.

Common error

Avoid using "a reasonable probability that" when the chance is highly uncertain or purely speculative. This phrase implies a degree of confidence that should align with the available evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable probability that" functions as a qualifying expression, indicating a level of likelihood or chance. As Ludwig AI illustrates, it often introduces a clause expressing a potential outcome or event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable probability that" is a versatile phrase used to express a moderate level of certainty or likelihood. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it's commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, indicating its broad applicability. When using this phrase, ensure that your assertion is supported by evidence to maintain credibility. Remember that alternatives like "a likely chance that" or "a good possibility that" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in tone. "A reasonable probability that" serves as a useful tool for qualified predictions and assessments of potential outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a likely chance that

Replaces "probability" with a more informal term, "chance", emphasizing the likelihood of an event.

a good possibility that

Substitutes "reasonable probability" with "good possibility", suggesting a favorable chance of something occurring.

a fair likelihood that

Replaces "probability" with "likelihood", indicating a balanced chance of something happening.

a credible chance that

Emphasizes the believability of the chance, suggesting that the possibility is based on solid evidence.

a realistic prospect that

Focuses on the practicality and feasibility of the possibility, indicating that it's achievable.

a distinct possibility that

Highlights that there exists a notable and clear possibility.

a tangible prospect that

Implies a real and measurable possibility, adding a concrete element.

a plausible scenario where

Shifts from probability to scenario, suggesting a believable set of circumstances.

a conceivable outcome where

Replaces probability with a specific outcome, implying something imaginable or possible.

a not unreasonable expectation that

Expresses a level of expectation that aligns with what is logically acceptable or justifiable.

FAQs

How can I use "a reasonable probability that" in a sentence?

Use "a reasonable probability that" to indicate something has a good chance of occurring based on available information. For example: "There is "a reasonable probability that" the company will meet its quarterly goals."

What are some alternatives to saying "a reasonable probability that"?

You can use alternatives like "a likely chance that", "a good possibility that", or "a fair likelihood that" to express a similar degree of likelihood.

Is it better to say "a reasonable probability of" or "a reasonable probability that"?

"A reasonable probability of" is typically followed by a noun or gerund (e.g., a reasonable probability of success), while ""a reasonable probability that"" is followed by a clause (e.g., a reasonable probability that it will rain).

What does "a reasonable probability that" imply about the level of certainty?

It suggests a level of certainty that is more than just possible but not entirely guaranteed. The outcome is considered likely based on the available evidence.