more than probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more than probable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a likelihood that exceeds mere probability, suggesting that something is very likely to happen. Example: "Given the evidence presented, it is more than probable that the defendant was at the scene of the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

It's more than probable that all of them were at least working together".

The New York Times

It is more than probable many heads of state will not come if the negotiations are not complete.

The Guardian

It is more than probable that arrays for 50 100 DNA sequences will be needed for some clinical applications.

Comprehensive Analytical Chemistry

"I think it's more than probable" that the Rockets would change cities without a new arena, Stern said at his annual news conference at the All-Star Game.

The New York Times - Sports

Put it like this: it's more than probable that we're never going to turn out again for the wedding of a Prince Andrew.

Independent

That would leave Rodgers looking for other options but with a week left of the transfer window it is more than probable there will be no new arrivals.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

They may also only pass polls to the press that are based on turnout models more favorable than probable for their candidates.

The Guardian - Opinion

Turning down such an opportunity troubled me more than my probable failure.

The Guardian

Among the 486 participants, 79.2% had more than one probable mental health condition.

Psychiatry Research

So far Toronto has had more than 140 probable cases of SARS and more than 20 deaths.

The New York Times - Arts

Changes in climate have been identified as one of the key drivers of extinctions of amphibians, with more than 160 probable extinctions in the last two decades, many in Central America.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "more than probable" when you want to convey a strong likelihood, but wish to avoid stating something as a certainty. This phrase acknowledges a degree of possibility, however small, that the event may not occur.

Common error

Avoid using "more than probable" when the evidence strongly suggests certainty. In such cases, phrases like "almost certain" or "virtually certain" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more than probable" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It serves to describe the degree of likelihood or certainty associated with the subject it modifies. Ludwig AI confirms this is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more than probable" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to indicate a strong likelihood or expectation. As Ludwig AI points out, it is deemed correct and serves the purpose of conveying a high degree of probability without asserting absolute certainty. It finds its prevalence across diverse domains, including news, scientific literature, and academic writing. While versatile, writers should exercise caution in scenarios demanding absolute certainty, where alternatives like "almost certain" may be more fitting. Understanding these nuances empowers effective communication, ensuring clarity and precision in conveying degrees of likelihood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly probable

Emphasizes a high degree of probability, suggesting something is very likely.

very likely

Directly indicates a high chance of occurrence.

virtually certain

Conveys an extremely high degree of confidence in an outcome.

almost certain

Suggests a near guarantee, with minimal doubt.

most likely

Implies that among several possibilities, this one is the most expected.

in all likelihood

Expresses a strong expectation based on available evidence.

odds are

Informal way to indicate something is likely to happen.

chances are

Similar to 'odds are', but slightly more formal.

it stands to reason

Indicates that something is logical or reasonably expected.

likely enough

Indicates a sufficient degree of probability for something to occur.

FAQs

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

You can use "more than probable" to express a high degree of likelihood, but not absolute certainty. For example: "It is "more than probable" that the project will be completed on time, given the current progress."

What are some alternatives to saying "more than probable"?

Alternatives include "highly likely", "very likely", "almost certain", or "most likely". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of certainty you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "more probable than not" instead of "more than probable"?

While "more probable than not" is a valid phrase often used in legal contexts, it has a different meaning. It implies a bare majority of probability (over 50%), whereas "more than probable" suggests a higher degree of likelihood.

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

"Possible" simply means that something could happen. "More than probable" indicates a stronger likelihood; it suggests that something is not only possible but also quite likely to occur. It is something "likely".