in the improbable case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the improbable case" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a scenario that is unlikely to happen, often to introduce a hypothetical situation. Example: "In the improbable case that it rains during the outdoor event, we have arranged for a tent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The bad news is that he will be unlikely to start a Game 7, in the improbable case one is needed.

The New York Times - Sports

Using a one-sample summary-statistic approach, a t-test showed that subjects were on average 14 ms (95% CI = [2.5, 22.4]) slower in the improbable case (P = 0.018, df = 15).

Human Brain Mapping

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In that (improbable) case, no one in the conservative camp would have the clout to stop the party boss going for the top government job too.In the longer run, though, Mr Schäuble's chances of running for the chancellorship are far less sure.

The Economist

In the not improbable case that the Court held the Virgin Islands' enactment constitutional, a small change in the Organic Act would be the only way of preventing the operation of this Insular 'Pied Piper.' Yet Congress made no such change.

Cornell University

SCOTT FITZGERALD Wealth, in even the most improbable cases, manages to convey the aspect of intelligence.

Forbes

One result is the rise of improbable case names such as United States v.

The New Yorker

Now, they must put their faith in the improbable.

The New York Times - Sports

He can make them believe in the improbable.

The New York Times - Sports

But Gardiners co-owner Gary Mullaney had a secret weapon on his side: an insurance policy for which the company paid $12,000 in case the improbable happened.

Huffington Post

We will not attempt to account for all possible cases but conclude merely that a vertical drop in (v_{mathrm{equiv}}) is not improbable in the HB case, and, if there is a vertical drop, f–I will be linearized and stretched when (g_{z}) is large enough.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

In this case, the improbable conclusion given that the anomalous acceleration is towards the sun is that the laws of gravity need an extra post-Einsteinian tweak.This could cause serious difficulties.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the improbable case" to introduce a contingency plan or to address potential but unlikely problems. This demonstrates foresight and preparedness.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "in the improbable case" within a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound overly cautious or pessimistic. Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the improbable case" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. It introduces a hypothetical situation that is not likely to occur. It is used to set the stage for a contingency or a precautionary measure, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the improbable case" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to introduce unlikely or hypothetical scenarios. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's relatively rare, mainly appearing in news, scientific and academic contexts. Alternatives like "in the unlikely event" offer similar meanings and can provide variety in writing. When using "in the improbable case", remember to use it to indicate contingency planning. This provides preparedness without overusing the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the unlikely event

Replaces "case" with "event", emphasizing a hypothetical situation with low probability.

should the unlikely situation arise

Presents a more formal and conditional phrasing of an improbable scenario.

if the off chance occurs

Highlights the remoteness of the possibility.

on the off chance that

Similar to the previous one, but uses a slightly different prepositional structure.

in the exceptional circumstance

Emphasizes the rarity and deviation from the norm.

in the remote possibility

Focuses on the distant likelihood of the event.

if such a thing were to happen

Introduces a highly speculative and doubtful scenario.

were that to be the case

A more formal and somewhat literary way of expressing a hypothetical situation.

assuming the least probable scenario

Specifically addresses the scenario with the lowest chance of occurring.

contingent on the unlikeliest outcome

Highlights the dependence on a very improbable result.

FAQs

How can I use "in the improbable case" in a sentence?

Use "in the improbable case" to introduce a scenario that is unlikely but still needs to be considered. For instance, "In the improbable case that our primary supplier fails, we have a backup agreement with another vendor."

What are some alternatives to "in the improbable case"?

You can use alternatives like "in the unlikely event", "should the unlikely situation arise", or "on the off chance that".

Is it better to say "in the improbable case" or "in the unlikely case"?

Both "in the improbable case" and "in the unlikely case" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "in the improbable case" in formal writing?

It is suitable in formal writing when discussing risk assessment, contingency planning, or hypothetical scenarios that require a degree of caution. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your document.