if it is probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it is probable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the likelihood or chances of a certain event or outcome occurring. Example: "We should consider proceeding with the project if it is probable that we will secure the necessary funding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The scales tend to be balanced with him, even if it is probable that he is tipping towards tendering his official resignation.

The Guardian - Sport

ASC 450 also states that in the absence of a manifestation by a potential claimant of awareness of a possible claim, disclosure of an unasserted claim is still required if it is "probable" that the claim will be asserted and there is a reasonable possibility the outcome will be unfavorable.

Harvard University

However, this assumption is unlikely to be true, even if it is probable that most (but not all) of the unspecified schwannomas are VS.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It may well be that Sutcliffe suffered from such a disorder at the time of the murders, and, if so, it is probable that he suffers from it still.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, even if they were, it is probable that selection pressure in the form of competition with other virus variants reduces the fitness of the virus so severely that these mutations do not develop.

Plosone

Test again; if irritation continues, it is probable that you need to discontinue.

WikiHow

In answer to the observations, that, by frequency of elections, good men will be excluded, I answer, if they behave well, it is probable they will be continued; but if they behave ill, how shall we remedy the evil?

University of Chicago

Since there is only a weak effect, if any, of OPG on inflammation, it is probable that its potential use in RA patients needs to be flanked by sufficient anti-inflammatory treatment.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Notably, if fNL is smaller, it is probable that the frequency band affected by soil nonlinearity will be wider.

Earth, Planets and Space

Nor would it do to make the unpronounced modal operator in bare conditionals "probably"; for one can be certain that it is probable that if A, C, without being certain that if A, C.

SEP

It is probable, if not definite, that the Nets will relieve Don Casey of his duties.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if it is probable" when you want to introduce a condition based on a reasonable likelihood. Ensure the context clearly supports the level of certainty implied by 'probable'.

Common error

Avoid using "if it is probable" when the situation is merely possible or speculative. Using stronger language like "if it is certain" may be more appropriate if the outcome is highly predictable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it is probable" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a condition that, if met, makes a subsequent statement likely or valid. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase sets up scenarios dependent on the likelihood of an event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

29%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "if it is probable" introduces a conditional clause based on a reasonable likelihood. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its application across various contexts, including science, news, and academia. While "if it is probable" is not as common as other conditional phrases, it offers a precise way to express conditions dependent on a reasonable expectation. When using this phrase, consider the level of certainty you want to convey and ensure that the context supports the implied probability. Alternatives like "if it is likely" may be suitable for more casual settings, while phrases like "should it be probable" can add formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it is likely

Direct synonym, maintaining the same level of formality and meaning.

if it's likely

More informal contraction of "it is", suggesting a common conversational tone.

if it's probable that

Adds 'that' for explicit connection to a following clause.

assuming it is probable

Emphasizes an assumption as the basis for a subsequent statement.

provided that it is probable

Highlights a condition that must be met for something else to occur.

given that it is probable

Indicates that something is being considered in light of the probability.

should it be probable

Introduces a degree of formality and hypothetical consideration.

in the event that it is probable

More formal and emphatic, highlighting a specific condition.

if the odds are good

Informal, focusing on chances rather than formal probability.

if there's a good chance

Informal, emphasizes the possibility of an event occurring.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "if it is probable" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases such as "should it be probable" or "in the event that it is probable". These alternatives add a layer of sophistication and are suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What are some casual alternatives to "if it is probable"?

In more casual settings, you can use phrases like "if it's likely" or "if there's a good chance". These options are more conversational and relatable.

Is there a difference between "if it is probable" and "if it is possible"?

Yes, "if it is probable" suggests a higher degree of likelihood than "if it is possible". Probable implies a reasonable expectation based on available information, while possible simply means something is not impossible.

When is it appropriate to use "if it is probable" in writing?

Use "if it is probable" when you want to introduce a condition based on a reasonable likelihood. This phrase is suitable for expressing conditions that have a good chance of occurring, but are not guaranteed.