low probability of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low probability of" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing the likelihood of an event or outcome occurring. Example: "There is a low probability of rain tomorrow." Alternative expressions include "unlikely to," "slim chance of," and "minimal likelihood of."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Philadelphia's lower bond rating still signifies a low probability of default.

The New York Times

The U.S. Geological Survey estimates a low probability of fatalities from the earthquake.

The Washington Post

But it's a low probability of a really friggin' amazing event happening.

The Washington Post

Delete variables having a low probability of occurrence and a low potential impact.

Harvard Business Review

I see a very low probability of war, because the U.S. is not in a position to attack us.

The New Yorker

Those in the right-hand column have a low probability of being fully preserved over time.

Cornell University

On Feb. 20 the department said that "there is a low probability of attack by Iraq" on Israel.

The New York Times - Travel

At this level there is a low to very low probability of keeping the temperature rise below two degrees.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Most of what I cut had a low probability of success," he said.

The New York Times

One big attraction for foreign investors is the low probability of nasty surprises.

The Economist

"There is a very low probability of him committing serious violence," Dr. Cunningham testified.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "low probability of", ensure you clearly articulate the event or outcome to which the low probability refers. This provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "low probability of" when you actually mean to convey impossibility. "Low probability" implies a small chance, whereas "impossible" means there is no chance at all.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low probability of" functions as a qualifier, specifically modifying a noun or noun phrase that follows it. It describes the degree of likelihood associated with a particular event or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used to express something is unlikely to occur.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

17%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "low probability of" is a versatile phrase used to express the unlikelihood of an event, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is grammatically correct and widely used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in science, news, and business settings. While the phrase itself is well-established, remember to provide context and differentiate it from implying impossibility. Consider using synonyms like ""slim chance of"" or ""slight likelihood of"" to tailor your writing and to avoid confusion, provide context and differentiate it from implying impossibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight likelihood of

Replaces "probability" with "likelihood" and "low" with "slight" to indicate a small chance.

negligible chance of

Indicates the chance is so small it can be ignored.

slim chance of

This alternative uses a more informal expression to convey a small chance.

unlikely to happen

This alternative phrase uses a verb phrase to describe something improbable.

remote possibility of

Emphasizes the unlikelihood of the event by using "remote".

rare likelihood of

Uses "rare" instead of "low" to highlight the infrequency.

small risk of

Focuses on the risk aspect, implying a small risk exists.

minimal prospect of

Substitutes "probability" with "prospect" to suggest a reduced expectation.

scant expectation of

Emphasizes the small amount of expectation.

limited potential for

Shifts focus to the limited potential instead of probability.

FAQs

How can I use "low probability of" in a sentence?

You can use "low probability of" to describe events or outcomes that are unlikely. For example, "There is a "low probability of" rain tomorrow" or "The project has a "low probability of" success".

What are some alternatives to "low probability of"?

Some alternatives include "slim chance of", "slight likelihood of", or "remote possibility of". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it better to say "low probability of" or "small chance of"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "low probability of" is generally more formal and precise, often used in scientific or technical contexts. "Small chance of" is more informal and suitable for general conversation.

What does it mean when something has a "low probability of" happening?

When something has a "low probability of" happening, it means that it is unlikely to occur. While not impossible, the chances of it occurring are small.