cannot exclude the probability that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot exclude the probability that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing uncertainty or the possibility of an event occurring, often in analytical or formal contexts. Example: "While we have strong evidence supporting our hypothesis, we cannot exclude the probability that other factors may also be influencing the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

We cannot exclude the possibility that these were chance findings.

British Medical Journal

This rate of detection might reflect the probability of coincidence between our imaging plane and the locus of tectal activity, although we cannot exclude the possibility that only a subset of responses are associated with active assemblies.

Current Biology

The IAEA cannot exclude the possibility that the Iranian programme has military aspects.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, the authors cannot exclude the possibility that other unmeasured factors may be influencing this association.

Duke University

Of course, we cannot exclude the possibility that other unidentified proteins may contribute to their association.

Protein & Cell

Therefore, we cannot exclude the possibility that ET-1 was affected at translation or posttranslational level.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

We cannot exclude the possibility that LV dilatation might have occurred at later time points.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

Thus, we cannot exclude the possibility that PTSD and migraine status were underreported in our study.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Therefore, we cannot exclude the possibility that luminal stenosis was overestimated on fused images.

Insights into Imaging

We cannot exclude the possibility that mutation of the ZFs alters the precision of editing.

Plosone

However, we cannot exclude the possibility that the alleles we investigated are associated with smaller risks.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot exclude the probability that", ensure the statement is followed by a clear explanation of what factors might contribute to that probability. Provide context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot exclude the probability that" when stronger evidence exists to either support or refute the possibility. This phrase is most effective when genuine uncertainty remains.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot exclude the probability that" functions as an epistemic hedge, softening a claim by acknowledging that other possibilities exist. It introduces a statement of uncertainty, indicating that while one explanation might be favored, other explanations are not definitively disproven.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cannot exclude the probability that" is a phrase used to express measured uncertainty, particularly in formal and scientific contexts. While the phrase is grammatically correct, according to Ludwig AI, it's crucial to use it judiciously, providing context and avoiding overstatement. Alternatives like "cannot rule out the possibility that" or "it is possible that" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight variations in nuance. The phrase's function is to hedge claims and maintain objectivity, acknowledging that other possibilities remain open.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot rule out the chance that

Replaces "probability" with "chance", slightly altering the nuance.

cannot dismiss the possibility that

Uses "dismiss" instead of "exclude", suggesting a slightly stronger consideration.

cannot disregard the likelihood that

Employs "disregard" and "likelihood" for a more formal tone.

it is possible that

Simplifies the structure, focusing on the possibility itself.

it is conceivable that

Replaces "possible" with "conceivable", indicating a degree of imaginability.

we cannot preclude the chance of

Replaces "exclude" with "preclude" and "probability" with "chance".

we must consider the chance that

Shifts the focus to active consideration of a possibility.

the possibility exists that

States the existence of a possibility without active exclusion.

it remains a possibility that

Highlights the continuing relevance of a particular possibility.

one cannot eliminate the chance that

Replaces "exclude" with "eliminate" and adds a degree of certainty.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot exclude the probability that" in a sentence?

Use "cannot exclude the probability that" to acknowledge a possible outcome or influence, even when other factors are more likely or better supported. For example: "While the data suggests X, we "cannot exclude the probability that" Y also plays a role."

What are some alternatives to saying "cannot exclude the probability that"?

You can use alternatives like "cannot rule out the possibility that", "it is possible that", or "cannot dismiss the likelihood that" depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Which is correct: "cannot exclude the probability that" or "cannot exclude the possibility that"?

Both "cannot exclude the probability that" and "cannot exclude the possibility that" are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to express; "probability" emphasizes the chance of something occurring, while "possibility" simply states that something could occur.

What's the difference between "cannot exclude the probability that" and "it is unlikely that"?

"Cannot exclude the probability that" acknowledges a possibility without indicating its likelihood. "It is unlikely that" suggests that something is possible but improbable. The former is more neutral, while the latter implies a low chance of occurrence.