a remote probability

USAGE SUMMARY

"a remote probability" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where it is highly unlikely for something to happen. For example, "Due to the lack of evidence, it is a remote probability that the defendant will be found guilty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"The idea is that by repeated confrontations with memories or situations that have a remote probability of causing harm, the person actually learns and modifies their expectations, and the anxiety goes down," said Dr. Edna B. Foa, a psychologist in the department of psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, who developed a widely tested exposure technique.

The New York Times - Science

In the case of the Roth conversion, this is more than a remote probability.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As a result of these meetings, Tōgō was authorized to approach the Soviet Union, seeking to maintain its neutrality, or (despite the very remote probability) to form an alliance.

Wikipedia

Resonance generated by more than two-component modes are neglected due to its remote probability of occurrence in nature.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Where t i ∈ Ts and T is Remote Probability Model (RPM) of remote sensor node.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Similarly, the 97% PPV estimate returned the conditional probability that a remote notification of an event by HM was trustworthy.

Europace

If consenting, the patient will be randomised using a remote randomisation service, with equal probability to either minimal intervention or stepped care.

BMC Health Services Research

Sodium warfarin is, on the other hand, readily available, but since it is a drug, there is a remote, but still non-zero, probability that it can be present in the samples being analysed.

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

Darwin wrote in his notes: To what a remote age does this in all probability call us back & yet we find the shells themselves & their habits the same as exist in the present sea.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

To what a remote age does this in all probability call us back & yet we find the shells themselves & their habits the same as exist in the present sea.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

While it remains a remote prospect in the estimation of economists, the probability of an Italian default is nonetheless growing as mounting anxiety in markets translates into steep borrowing costs for Italy's government.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a remote probability", ensure the context clearly indicates what event or outcome is being described as unlikely. For example, instead of saying "There's a remote probability", specify "There's a remote probability of a market crash".

Common error

Avoid using "a remote probability" when the event is impossible, not just improbable. If an event is definitively ruled out, stating it has a 'remote probability' introduces unnecessary confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a remote probability" functions as a qualifier, modifying a noun or clause to indicate the unlikelihood of a particular event or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms it is appropriate.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a remote probability" is a grammatically correct expression used to indicate a low likelihood of something happening. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for describing situations where an event is improbable, though not impossible. It finds use primarily in news, media, and scientific contexts. While examples are relatively rare, the phrase carries a neutral-to-formal tone, making it appropriate for discussing risks, forecasts, and theoretical possibilities. Alternatives include "a slim chance" or "an unlikely event", offering writers a range of options to express varying degrees of improbability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hardly any likelihood

Directly states the lack of likelihood.

a slim chance

Emphasizes the smallness of the likelihood.

a negligible possibility

Highlights that the possibility is so small it can be disregarded.

an unlikely event

Focuses on the low likelihood of the event occurring.

minimal prospect

Emphasizes the smallness of the outlook or possibility.

a rare occurrence

Stresses the infrequency of the event.

a distant prospect

Indicates the event is far off in the future or unlikely to materialize.

a faint hope

Suggests the possibility exists but is weak and uncertain.

an outside shot

Implies a very low chance of success.

a snowball's chance in hell

An idiomatic expression conveying extreme improbability.

FAQs

How can I use "a remote probability" in a sentence?

You can use "a remote probability" to describe something that is unlikely to happen. For example: "There is "a remote probability" of rain this week."

What are some alternatives to "a remote probability"?

Alternatives include "a slim chance", "an unlikely event", or "a negligible possibility".

Is it appropriate to use "a remote probability" in formal writing?

Yes, "a remote probability" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing risks, forecasts, or predictions. However, consider whether a more precise term like "low likelihood" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a remote probability" and "an impossibility"?

"A remote probability" suggests something is very unlikely but still theoretically possible. "An impossibility", on the other hand, means something cannot happen under any circumstances.