seemed probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seemed probable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a likelihood or possibility regarding a situation or outcome. Example: "Given the evidence presented, it seemed probable that the defendant was guilty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

It seemed probable that West would win with the jack or queen and lead a spade.

The New York Times - Arts

SINCE the start of the year it had seemed probable, and for several weeks inevitable.

The Economist

While it seemed probable that Ramírez will remain with the Red Sox, speculation was ablaze about his future.

The New York Times

It seemed probable that war would break out between Britain and Russia over the control of Constantinople.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At this point it seemed probable that the Dutch would go on to burnish the scoreline even farther.

The Guardian - Sport

From what officials at Nadir said and from what seemed probable to the eye, the attacks appeared to have been one.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

But it seems probable.

The New York Times - Arts

Why does this seem probable?

The New York Times

A semifinal between Norway and Italy seems probable.

The New York Times - Arts

It seems probable that the mother was getting worse.

The New Yorker

It seems probable that Elbaz may take over at Dior.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seemed probable", ensure the context provides clear reasoning or evidence supporting the assessment of likelihood. This strengthens the credibility of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "seemed probable" when the situation is almost certain or has already occurred. Opt for stronger assertions like "was certain" or "definitely happened" to accurately reflect the level of certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seemed probable" functions as an assessment of likelihood or possibility. It suggests that, based on available information, something appeared likely to occur, although not with complete certainty. As shown by Ludwig AI, this expression is versatile across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seemed probable" is a versatile phrase used to express a reasoned judgment about the likelihood of an event, based on the available evidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While alternatives such as "appeared likely" and "was highly likely" exist, "seemed probable" offers a balanced level of certainty suitable for nuanced communication. When employing this phrase, ensure the context supports the assessment of likelihood to enhance credibility and avoid overstating certainty. This phrase demonstrates a clear and effective way to communicate probability without asserting absolute fact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appeared likely

Replaces "seemed" with "appeared", focusing on visual evidence or initial impression.

was highly likely

Emphasizes a stronger probability compared to "seemed probable".

was quite possible

Indicates a reasonable chance of occurrence, focusing on possibility rather than probability.

looked plausible

Highlights the credibility or believability of something.

was reasonably expected

Focuses on the expectation based on given circumstances or previous experience.

suggested a likelihood

Implies that evidence pointed towards a probable outcome.

indicated a probability

More formally suggests a calculated or assessed chance of something happening.

was on the cards

An idiomatic expression suggesting something was anticipated or foreseen.

carried a strong possibility

Highlights the presence of a significant chance or likelihood.

was shaping up to be

Suggests that events were developing in a way that made a certain outcome likely.

FAQs

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

Use "seemed probable" to indicate that something appeared likely based on the available evidence. For example, "Given the circumstances, a positive outcome "seemed probable"."

What phrases are similar to "seemed probable"?

Alternatives include "appeared likely", "was highly likely", or "looked plausible", each carrying slight differences in emphasis and nuance.

Is it better to say "seemed probable" or "was probable"?

"Seemed probable" suggests an assessment based on observation or initial information, while "was probable" indicates a more definitive judgment. The choice depends on the level of certainty and the basis for the assessment.

When is it inappropriate to use "seemed probable"?

Avoid using "seemed probable" when there's definitive proof or certainty about an outcome. In such cases, phrases like "was certain" or "definitely occurred" are more accurate.