the least probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the least probable" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when describing a choice with the least probability of occurring. For example: "The least probable outcome of this election is that the candidate loses her home state."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

This value is calculated by taking the probability of the least probable valid alignment corrupted with two extra base mismatches.

Bioinformatics

The LEast PRobable first policy drops the bundle with the lowest delivery probability.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Likewise, to determine to what extent connections between cells are part of the divergent part of the trajectories, we calculate the probability that the most probable trajectory crosses a cell connection and the least probable trajectory fails to do so.

Plosone

We'd go from the most probable to the least probable".

The New York Times - Science

The least probable is for the detested Mr. Davis to beat the recall.

The New York Times

The least probable is certainly that of a victorious resistance of the paper book".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

We followed Pyron et al.'s lead in using the least-probable training point likelihood ("minimum training presence") to set the threshold for discriminating suitable from non-suitable habitat.

Plosone

Here, the team members were asked to vote each cause based on their understanding of the most probable to least probable root cause for the problem at hand.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

The gradient modes are ordered from most probable to least probable in the candidate set.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

A critical annulus Reynolds number is found at which the jet-like flame is least probable to lift off, whereas, for the latter case, partial quenching of the blue neck flame in jet-dominated flames is retarded due to the presence of a reignition source, the combusting recirculation zone.

Combustion and Flame

Prognoses, contrary to the original concept, are assumed to create at least probable knowledge about the future when, in fact, they create knowledge about the past and probabilities have nothing to do with future.

European Journal of Futures Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing scenarios or outcomes, use "the least probable" to clearly identify the option with the lowest likelihood, providing a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Common error

While grammatically sound, using "the least probable" in casual conversations can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler phrases like "unlikely" or "not very likely" in everyday speech.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the least probable" functions as a superlative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun (often implied) by indicating that it possesses the lowest degree of probability among a set of possibilities. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the least probable" is a grammatically correct and commonly used superlative adjective phrase that identifies the option with the lowest likelihood. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and provides ample examples. It is frequently used in scientific and news contexts, maintaining a neutral to formal tone. When writing, consider replacing it with simpler terms like "least likely" in informal settings. Using "the least probable" effectively enhances clarity when discussing scenarios and their respective likelihoods, as seen in numerous examples from respected sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

least likely

A shorter and simpler way to convey the same meaning.

the lowest probability

Focuses on probability as a calculated value, pinpointing the minimum.

the unlikeliest

A more concise alternative, emphasizing the lack of likelihood.

the most improbable

Highlights the extreme unlikelihood, presenting it as the opposite of probable.

not very probable

Emphasizes the lack of probability, using a negative construction.

highly unlikely

Directly states the improbability of the event, using an adjective.

minimally likely

Uses an adverb to describe the degree of likelihood, suggesting a very low probability.

the remotest possibility

Highlights the distance or unlikelihood of the event occurring.

the slightest chance

Focuses on the minimal possibility, emphasizing the small degree of likelihood.

the smallest chance

Emphasizes the minimal opportunity or likelihood of an event happening.

FAQs

How can I use "the least probable" in a sentence?

You can use "the least probable" to describe an event or outcome that has the lowest chance of occurring. For instance, "The least probable outcome is that the company will double its profits this year."

What's a simpler way to say "the least probable"?

Alternatives include "least likely", "highly unlikely", or "not very probable". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "least probable" or "least likely"?

Both "least probable" and "least likely" are grammatically correct. "Least probable" might sound slightly more formal, while "least likely" is generally more common.

What is the difference between "the most improbable" and "the least probable"?

"The most improbable" highlights the extreme unlikelihood, presenting it as the opposite of probable. Whereas, "the least probable" simply indicates the lowest probability among multiple possibilities. They are contrasting concepts.