unlikely event that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unlikely event that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a hypothetical situation that is not expected to occur. Example: "In the unlikely event that it rains tomorrow, we will move the picnic indoors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was such an unlikely event that I never considered it happening to myself.

Independent

In the unlikely event that acting doesn't work out, Wilson, unsurprisingly, has another cherished ambition.

The Guardian

In the highly unlikely event that it didn't work out, Turner Advertising would be crippled.

The New Yorker

The world would rightly condemn them in the unlikely event that they did so.

The Economist

People can go there to contribute quotations, in the unlikely event that Mr. Shapiro overlooked one.

The New York Times - Tech

In the unlikely event that you need reminding, there are four days left until Christmas.

The Guardian - Film

Probably only in the unlikely event that the sequels are as good as the originals.

The New York Times - Books

And in the unlikely event that we share their hateful characteristics, we can still forgive ourselves.

The Guardian - Books

So heaven knows what will happen in the unlikely event that England make the final.

The Guardian - Sport

He'd really deserve it in the very unlikely event that he can hold on.

The Guardian - Sport

(Some still do, in the unlikely event that they can get hired).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unlikely event that" to introduce a condition or scenario you don't expect to happen, but need to account for in your planning or discussion. This helps in considering various possibilities, even improbable ones.

Common error

While acceptable, avoid overuse of "unlikely event that" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for alternatives like "improbable situation" or "remote possibility" to maintain a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unlikely event that" functions as a subordinating conjunction, introducing a conditional clause expressing a low-probability scenario. This clause modifies the main clause, providing a contingency plan or acknowledging a remote possibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unlikely event that" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce a conditional clause expressing a low-probability scenario. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. While versatile, it's most frequently found in News & Media contexts, with Science and Formal & Business settings also utilizing it. For highly formal writing, alternatives like "improbable situation" or "remote possibility" may be preferred. Remember that while it signals something improbable, it still warrants consideration, so ensure the subsequent clause addresses the potential contingency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly improbable that

Intensifies the sense of unlikelihood.

rare occurrence that

Emphasizes the infrequency of the event.

improbable situation that

Highlights the low probability of the circumstance.

remote possibility that

Focuses on the distant likelihood of the event.

slight chance that

Underscores the minimal likelihood of the event happening.

unexpected circumstance that

Shifts focus to the surprise element if the event occurs.

unforeseen contingency that

Emphasizes the unplanned and uncertain nature of the event.

vanishingly small chance that

Highlights an extremely low probability.

in the event of a surprise

Focuses on preparation for an unexpected outcome.

should a miracle occur

Implies the event is almost impossible, bordering on miraculous.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "unlikely event that" for variety?

Consider using alternatives such as "rare occurrence that", "improbable situation that", or "remote possibility that" to add nuance and avoid repetition. The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "unlikely event that" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "unlikely event that" may sound less sophisticated in highly formal contexts. Alternatives like "highly improbable that" or "remote possibility that" might be preferable.

How to use "unlikely event that" in a sentence?

You can use "unlikely event that" to introduce a condition that is not expected to occur. For example, "In the "unlikely event that" the project fails, we have a backup plan."

What's the difference between "unlikely event that" and "impossible scenario that"?

"Unlikely event that" suggests a low probability, while "impossible scenario that" indicates something that cannot happen. Use "unlikely event that" when something is improbable but still conceivable; use "impossible scenario that" when something is fundamentally unachievable.