more probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more probable" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when there is a greater likelihood of something occurring, compared to another event. For example: The probability of rain today is more probable than sunshine.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

300 is more probable from here, and probably below par.

The Guardian - Sport

That leaves two more probable alternatives.

The New York Times - Magazine

The city identified five more probable cases.

The New York Times - Health

It makes it more probable," Mr Knight said.

Independent

An association like this is more probable now than ever.

The New York Times - Sports

So, what is more probable than not to have happened?

The New Yorker

The opera house would seem a more probable destination.

The New York Times

After Christmas 2015, the impossible became ever more probable.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Some thermonuclear reactions are more probable than others.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That's not definitive proof, but it's more probable".

Independent

It is more probable that Stilwell, or Janus, could be a takeover candidate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two or more possibilities, use "more probable" to indicate which outcome is the most likely based on available evidence or reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "more probable" when "possible" is more appropriate. "Possible" simply means something could happen, while "more probable" suggests it is likely to happen. Always consider the degree of likelihood you intend to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more probable" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun or clause to indicate a higher degree of likelihood. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. Examples from Ludwig show its application in assessing the likelihood of events, scenarios, and outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more probable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase that indicates a higher likelihood of something occurring. Ludwig AI validates its usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic sources. When using "more probable", remember to consider the specific context and the degree of certainty you wish to convey, avoiding confusion with similar terms like "possible". By understanding its nuances and following the best practices outlined, you can effectively incorporate "more probable" into your writing to express relative likelihoods with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more likely

Indicates a greater chance of something happening, often used interchangeably with "more probable" but can imply a stronger degree of certainty.

higher likelihood

A more formal way of expressing "more probable", suitable for technical or academic contexts.

greater possibility

Similar to "more probable", but emphasizes the existence of a chance rather than the degree of likelihood.

more plausible

Suggests something is believable or has the appearance of truth, differing from "more probable" by emphasizing credibility over pure chance.

better chance

A more informal and direct alternative to "more probable", suitable for everyday conversation.

odds are higher

Focuses on the statistical advantage of one outcome over another, differing slightly from the general likelihood implied by "more probable".

more conceivable

Emphasizes the possibility of something being imagined or understood, whereas "more probable" focuses on its likelihood of occurrence.

on the cards

An idiomatic expression indicating something is likely to happen, providing a less direct alternative.

more predictable

Highlights the ability to foresee or anticipate an event, contrasting with "more probable" which simply indicates a higher chance.

more anticipated

Suggests expectation and readiness for an event, shifting the focus from probability to anticipation.

FAQs

How can I use "more probable" in a sentence?

You can use "more probable" to describe a situation or outcome that is more likely to occur compared to another. For instance, "It is "more probable" that the team will win if their star player is healthy."

What are some alternatives to "more probable"?

Alternatives to "more probable" include phrases such as "more likely", "more plausible", or "greater possibility", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "more probable" or "most probable"?

"More probable" is used to compare two options, indicating one is likelier than the other. "Most probable" is used to identify the single likeliest option among three or more possibilities.

What's the difference between "more probable" and "more possible"?

"More possible" suggests that something is increasingly feasible or conceivable. In contrast, ""more probable"" indicates a higher degree of likelihood based on evidence or reasoning. Therefore, it's about the degree of chance rather than feasibility.