probability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "probability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to statistics, mathematics, or discussions about likelihood and chance. Example: "The probability of rolling a six on a fair die is one in six."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The probability of Greece repositioning itself closer to Russia is practically zero for as long as Greece remains a full member of European institutions," said the Hellenic Foundation's Dokos.

The Guardian

Anybody who feels the need to tell you how much they're doing it in all probability isn't.

The Guardian - Opinion

But if you remain open to the possibility of change, even if it's a slim possibility, even if we recognise that it's a small probability, if you remain open to that probability and fight for it then you become part of the shift towards that.

The Guardian

It assigns a probability to outcomes across the country based on the data collected.

The Guardian

On these shores, rumours suggest that were Simon Rattle to be thinking about possibly running the London Symphony Orchestra, he would, hypothetically, in an ideal world where everything's putatively perfect, demand, or rather catalyse, the construction of a new concert hall somewhere, somehow, in all probability in the City of London.

The Guardian - Music

The probability of a majority government remains extremely low – Labour and the Conservatives are unlikely to be able to form a government with the votes of their respective members of parliament alone.

The Guardian

If not for the storm generated by the censorship controversy, there's a high probability that North would have barely caused a blip on the radar.

The Guardian - Film

Our study found that nominees for a peerage since 2005 had an 8.6% chance of being a "big donor"; whereas there was just a 0.2% probability that someone elected to the House of Commons over the same period was a big donor.

The Guardian - Opinion

The government could either top-slice existing budgets or take a chance on the probability that early intervention would lead to a reduced welfare budget.

The Guardian

She said it is unnecessary and "in all probability illegal" for companies to ask to see a GRC before agreeing to change a customer's name and title.

The Guardian

In fact a third party, the Lib Dems, has a higher probability of being part of a government than either Labour or the Conservatives.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "probability", ensure you clearly define the event or outcome you are assessing. Providing context helps avoid ambiguity and ensures your audience understands the scope of your assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "probability" when you mean certainty. "Probability" indicates a degree of likelihood, not a guaranteed outcome. For instance, instead of saying "The probability of rain is 100%" (which implies certainty), state "Rain is certain" or "There is a 100% chance of rain".

Linguistic Context

The word "probability" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the extent to which something is likely to happen or be the case. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature in written English, appearing in sentences that quantify or discuss likelihood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

31%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "probability" is a noun frequently used to express the likelihood of an event occurring. Ludwig AI indicates that the word is correct and usable in diverse contexts. Its usage spans across news, formal business writing, and scientific discourse. When using "probability", it's vital to clarify the event being assessed and avoid confusing it with certainty. Common synonyms include "likelihood", "chance", and "odds". Understanding its proper application ensures clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

likelihood

Focuses on the state of being likely to happen; emphasizes the prospect of an event occurring.

chance

Highlights the possibility of something occurring, often implying randomness or uncertainty.

odds

Refers to the ratio of the probability of an event occurring to the probability of it not occurring.

prospect

Emphasizes the potential or possibility of a future event or outcome.

likelihood of success

Specifically indicates the chance of achieving a favorable result.

possibility

Indicates that something could happen or be true, without specifying how likely it is.

potential

Highlights the inherent capacity for something to develop or happen in the future.

degree of certainty

Focuses on the level of confidence or assurance in the occurrence of an event.

statistical likelihood

Highlights the assessment of likelihood based on data and statistical analysis.

risk factor

Emphasizes the element that increases the likelihood of a negative outcome.

FAQs

How to use "probability" in a sentence?

You can use "probability" to describe the likelihood of an event occurring, as in "The "probability of success" is high" or "There is a low probability of rain today".

What can I say instead of "probability"?

You can use alternatives like "likelihood", "chance", or "odds" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "probability" or "possibility"?

"Probability" refers to the degree of likelihood that an event will occur, whereas "possibility" simply means that an event could occur. Probability implies a quantitative assessment, while possibility does not.

What's the difference between "probability" and "likelihood"?

"Probability" is often used in a more formal or statistical context, referring to a numerical assessment of chance. "Likelihood" is a more general term for the state of being likely and can be used interchangeably with "probability" in many situations.