a small probability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small probability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood of an event occurring, particularly in statistical or scientific contexts. Example: "There is a small probability that the experiment will yield unexpected results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

For this, we introduce a small probability u that each new offspring is a mutant.

eLife

Time now to get serious about deëscalation and negotiation.' I assign this possible outcome a small probability.

The New Yorker

But for such a catastrophic event, even a small probability is worrying.

The Economist

Today's climate models also suggest a small probability of exceeding four degrees of warming, and research has suggested that anything beyond 12 degrees would render most of the planet uninhabitable for humanity.

The Guardian

So if the hill is not infinitely high or infinitely thick (few are) there is a small probability, the tail of the exponent, that the ball will make through to the other side, as though it has tunnelled through.

The Guardian

Was it rational to accept a small probability of an almost immediate death to reduce greatly a large probability of death by smallpox in the indefinite future?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Meanwhile, Macedonian authorities said there was only a "small probability" a Briton who died in Skopje on Thursday had the Ebola virus, according to an initial analysis.

Independent

Pascal's idea was that even a small probability of bringing about an enormous good (without risking unacceptable evil) was good reason for acting.

The New York Times

for a small probability event.

Journal of Cloud Computing

It also guarantees that new sellers drop out with a small probability (close to 0).

Performance Evaluation

For mutation, with a small probability, flip a random bit in the offsprings' bit streams.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting statistical data or research findings, use "a small probability" to convey precision and objectivity. For example: "There is "a small probability" of error in the experimental results."

Common error

Avoid using "a small probability" when you mean something is impossible. "A small probability" suggests it's unlikely but still possible. Use "impossible" or "no chance" when there is absolutely no possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small probability" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It quantifies the likelihood of an event, indicating it is not very likely to occur. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

18%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small probability" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe an event with a low likelihood of occurrence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is commonly found in scientific and news contexts, with a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the possibility of an event and is not confused with impossibility. Related phrases include "a slight chance" and "a low likelihood", which can be used interchangeably depending on the desired level of formality. Remember that while the probability is small, it isn't zero.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A slight chance

Changes the noun from "probability" to "chance", offering a more informal tone.

A low likelihood

Replaces "small" with "low" and "probability" with "likelihood", providing a more direct synonym.

A slim chance

Replaces "small" with "slim", suggesting a thin or narrow possibility.

A minimal possibility

Substitutes "small" with "minimal" and "probability" with "possibility", emphasizing the near absence of a chance.

A trivial likelihood

Indicates the probability is unimportant or insignificant.

A negligible risk

Frames the concept in terms of "risk", suggesting the probability is so low it can be disregarded.

A remote prospect

Uses "remote prospect" to imply the event is unlikely and distant.

An unlikely event

Focuses on the event itself being improbable.

A faint hope

Emphasizes the weakness of the hope associated with the event.

A rare occurrence

Highlights the infrequency of the event.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small probability" to describe an event that is unlikely to happen. For example, "There is "a small probability" of rain tomorrow" or "The medical procedure carries "a small probability" of complications".

What's the difference between "a small probability" and "a small chance"?

The phrases "a small probability" and "a small chance" are very similar in meaning and are often interchangeable. "Probability" is generally used in more formal or statistical contexts, while "chance" is more common in everyday language.

What are some alternatives to saying "a small probability"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a low likelihood", "a slight chance", or "a minimal possibility".

Is it correct to use "a small probability" in scientific writing?

Yes, "a small probability" is perfectly acceptable and commonly used in scientific writing to describe the likelihood of an event or outcome. It provides a more precise way of indicating uncertainty than more vague terms.