is not probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not probable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing doubt or low likelihood regarding a certain event or situation. Example: "Given the current circumstances, it is not probable that we will meet our deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

The threat of concurrent strikes in the airline industry is not probable.

The New York Times

It is not probable, but it has just become a bit less improbable.

The Economist

"The retroactive bank recapitalization is not probable for the time being," Mr. Schäuble told reporters.

The New York Times

Other companies that own radio stations have said a recovery is not probable until at least the fourth quarter.

The New York Times

If heavy rainfall is not probable during critical stages of crop growth, less extensive drainage improvements may suffice.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Big Brown is too good, and reversing that form in two weeks when training is simply about keeping a horse maintained is not probable.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

"You're saying here in this court that if there's an arrest and there isn't probable cause, it is a crime?" Williams repeatedly asked prosecutors.

The Guardian

"It's not probable".

The New York Times - Sports

But when we look at the statistics, we know it's not probable.

The Guardian - Sport

McCulloch stressed that both investigations had concluded there was not probable cause to prosecute Wilson.

The Guardian

"I had to be up front with them that the chances of performances were not probable," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the context when choosing "is not probable". While grammatically sound, simpler alternatives like "unlikely" or "not likely" might be more suitable for informal communication.

Common error

While "is not probable" is correct, excessively using formal language in casual contexts can make your writing sound unnatural. Opt for simpler alternatives like "unlikely" or "not likely" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not probable" functions as a modal expression indicating a low degree of likelihood. It is used to express that something is possible, but unlikely, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is not probable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey that something is unlikely but still possible. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is acceptable and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. While "is not probable" is correct and common, simpler alternatives like "is unlikely" or "is not likely" might be more appropriate for informal contexts. The choice depends on the desired level of formality and the audience. It's important to remember that while "is not probable" suggests a low likelihood, it doesn't rule out the possibility entirely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unlikely

This alternative is a more concise and commonly used way to express that something is not likely to happen.

is not likely

This alternative maintains a similar structure but replaces "probable" with "likely", offering a slightly less formal tone.

is improbable

This alternative uses a single word, "improbable", to convey the same meaning, offering a more direct and formal option.

is doubtful

This alternative conveys a sense of uncertainty or skepticism about the possibility of something happening.

is questionable

This alternative suggests that the possibility is open to doubt or challenge.

is not expected

This alternative focuses on the lack of anticipation or expectation for something to occur.

chances are slim

This alternative uses a more idiomatic expression to indicate a low probability of success or occurrence.

it's a long shot

This alternative is an informal idiom describing something with a very low chance of success.

is against the odds

This alternative implies that prevailing conditions or circumstances make the event unlikely.

defies probability

This alternative phrase is more emphatic, suggesting something goes against established probabilities.

FAQs

What does "is not probable" mean?

The phrase "is not probable" means that something is unlikely to happen or is not expected to be true. It suggests a low degree of possibility.

What are some alternatives to "is not probable"?

You can use alternatives such as "is unlikely", "is not likely", or "is improbable" to convey a similar meaning.

How formal is the phrase "is not probable"?

The phrase "is not probable" is considered relatively formal. Simpler alternatives like "is unlikely" or "is not likely" are more common in everyday conversation.

Is it better to use "is not probable" or "is improbable"?

Both "is not probable" and "is improbable" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Is improbable" is more concise, while "is not probable" might sound slightly less formal.