probable that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "probable that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or chance of something occurring or being true. Example: "It is probable that the meeting will be rescheduled due to the weather conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Meanwhile, one thing seems probable: that cost will grow.

The Economist

It is probable that neither has made up his mind.

The New Yorker

It is probable that this initial misstep will be repeated.

The New York Times

It seems probable that the mother was getting worse.

The New Yorker

It is possible, probable, that it brings subscribers to HBO.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is also probable that nuns had a class bias.

The Guardian - Opinion

It seems probable that Elbaz may take over at Dior.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is probable that countries will follow the German prescription.

The New York Times

It is probable that the 1C threshold will be crossed.

Independent

It is probable that that character has been considerably misrepresented.

The Economist

Hence it is probable that the reasons are political.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "probable that" when you want to convey a sense of likelihood based on available evidence, but without stating absolute certainty. It's ideal for expressing informed estimations.

Common error

Avoid using "probable that" when the evidence strongly indicates a certainty. Use phrases like "it is certain that" or "undoubtedly" in situations where doubt is minimal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "probable that" functions as a connector introducing a clause that expresses a prediction or expectation. It serves to indicate a degree of likelihood, typically supported by some evidence or reasoning, as confirmed by Ludwig and the given examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "probable that" serves as a conjunction phrase indicating a reasoned assessment of likelihood or expectation. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase is widely used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. It generally maintains a neutral to formal tone, emphasizing a degree of objectivity. When writing, use "probable that" to convey informed estimations, but ensure not to overstate certainty when strong evidence suggests otherwise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

likely that

This is a direct synonym, differing only in word choice without affecting meaning.

very likely that

Adds emphasis to the probability, indicating a higher degree of certainty.

highly likely that

Similar to "very likely that", this phrase reinforces the high degree of probability.

it is expected that

Shifts the focus to an expectation rather than a probability, implying a reasonable basis for the belief.

it is anticipated that

Similar to "it is expected that", but suggests a proactive consideration of future events.

chances are that

Introduces an informal tone, expressing a good possibility of something happening.

it seems likely that

Indicates a conclusion based on available evidence, suggesting a well-grounded probability.

it is reasonable to assume that

Suggests a logical inference, emphasizing the rationality behind the expectation.

it is conceivable that

Implies something is possible, but not necessarily likely.

there's a good chance that

Expresses a positive outlook, suggesting a favorable probability.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "probable that"?

You can use alternatives such as "likely that", "very likely that", or "expected that" depending on the context.

How do you use "probable that" in a sentence?

You can use "probable that" to express a strong possibility or likelihood. For example: "It is probable that the meeting will be rescheduled."

Which is correct, "probable that" or "possibly that"?

"Probable that" indicates a higher degree of likelihood than "possibly that". Use "probable that" when there is substantial evidence suggesting something is likely to happen, and "possibly that" when there's just a chance.

What is the difference between "likely that" and "probable that"?

While both convey a sense of likelihood, "probable that" often suggests a reasoned assessment based on available data, whereas "likely that" can be a more general expression of expectation. They are largely interchangeable in many contexts.