is improbable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is improbable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something is unlikely to happen or occur. Example: "Given the current circumstances, it is improbable that we will meet our deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But that is improbable.

The Economist

The connection is improbable.

Independent

But this is improbable.

The New York Times

And it is improbable.

The New York Times

This is improbable.

The Economist

It is improbable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Outright break-up is improbable.

Independent

That is improbable.

The Guardian - Books

That is improbable in the foreseeable future.

The Economist

Opera, of course, is improbable by definition.

The New York Times - Arts

The scenario is improbable, of course.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is improbable" to express a calculated assessment of low likelihood based on available evidence, rather than a gut feeling or unsubstantiated opinion.

Common error

Avoid using "is improbable" when "is impossible" is more accurate. "Improbable" suggests a chance, however small, while "impossible" indicates no chance at all.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is improbable" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, modifying a subject and expressing a low probability of an event or situation occurring. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is improbable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a low likelihood of something occurring. As Ludwig AI highlights, it finds application across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic content, lending itself to both neutral and somewhat formal registers. While alternatives like "is unlikely" and "is doubtful" exist, the choice depends on the specific shade of meaning intended. When employing this phrase, ensure that the assessment of improbability is grounded in evidence rather than mere conjecture.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unlikely

Direct synonym indicating a low probability.

is doubtful

Implies uncertainty and a lack of confidence in the possibility.

is questionable

Suggests the validity or truth of something is in doubt.

is hardly possible

Emphasizes the difficulty or unlikelihood of something occurring.

is not expected

Indicates an anticipation that something will not happen.

is a long shot

Suggests a low chance of success or occurrence.

is far-fetched

Indicates something is unlikely due to being unrealistic or difficult to believe.

is remote

Implies a distant or slight possibility.

is against the odds

Suggests that success or occurrence is unlikely due to unfavorable circumstances.

is a pipe dream

Denotes an unrealistic or fanciful hope or plan.

FAQs

How to use "is improbable" in a sentence?

The phrase "is improbable" functions as a descriptor of likelihood. For instance, "It "is improbable" that the project will be completed on time given the current delays."

What can I say instead of "is improbable"?

You can use alternatives like "is unlikely", "is doubtful", or "is questionable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "is improbable" or "is unprobable"?

"Is improbable" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "Is unprobable" is not standard English.

What's the difference between "is improbable" and "is impossible"?

"Is improbable" suggests something is not likely but still possible, while "is impossible" means something cannot happen under any circumstances.