yet improbable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "yet improbable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or outcome that is unlikely to happen, but still possible. Example: "The idea of finding a unicorn in the forest is intriguing, yet improbable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In a striking reversal of a bold yet improbable plan to build a wireless network across Europe, the Spanish company Telefónica said it would "freeze" mobile operations in Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland.

The New York Times

And yet, improbable as it may seem, a tense tale of wartime intrigue and romance makes for riveting watching at the Atlantic Theater Company, where Moira Buffini's "Gabriel" opened Thursday night in a taut, superlatively acted production directed by David Esbjornson.

The New York Times

The babies were more surprised, and looked longer and more intently at the experimenter when four red balls and one white ball were taken out of the box — a possible, yet improbable outcome — than when four white balls and a red one were produced.

The New York Times

Hey, Newport-Mesa Unified School District, I will be knocking on your door soon to see if there is even one kid who lays awake nights dreaming of the royal, yet improbable, road to college.

Los Angeles Times

An exchange with participants from other quality circles is theoretically possible, yet improbable.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Yet the improbable sometimes happens in the Philippines.

The Economist

And there, in the middle of it all, was Marion S. Barry Jr., shaking hands, slapping backs and savoring yet another improbable political comeback.

The New York Times

In his final column as editor-in-chief in January, Rochabrun described how Prince writers had faced retaliation for their stories, including being banned from an eating club and threats of bodily harm ("serious yet highly improbable").

Princeton University

Instead, Tyler Sash returned an interception 86 yards for a touchdown, and Stanzi bounced back from a career-high five interceptions to rally No. 7 Iowa to a 42-24 victoryetyet another improbable finish in a season full of them.

The New York Times - Sports

I really thought I blew it," McDowell said after yet another improbable comeback.

Los Angeles Times

Allmusic's Eduardo Rivadavia, said that release of Inflikted "brings to fruition one of the most anticipated yet most improbable reunions in heavy metal history".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "yet improbable" to introduce a contrasting element, acknowledging the unlikelihood of something while still presenting it as a possibility or reality. This creates a sense of intrigue or surprise for the reader.

Common error

While "yet improbable" can be effective, avoid overusing it in highly formal or scientific writing where more precise or direct language might be preferred. Consider alternatives like "although unlikely" or "despite its low probability" for a more concise tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "yet improbable" functions as a concessive conjunction, introducing an element of contrast or surprise. Ludwig AI validates this usage, showing that the phrase is acceptable in English, conveying that something is unlikely but still possible or true.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "yet improbable" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a contrast, acknowledging the unlikelihood of something while still presenting it as possible or true. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that while the phrase is valid, its frequency is relatively rare. The phrase finds its use primarily in news, media, science, and academia. Keep in mind that while grammatically sound, alternatives may be more suitable for specific contexts. The phrase serves to highlight surprising or unexpected outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

though unlikely

Emphasizes the unlikelihood while still acknowledging possibility.

however improbable

Highlights the improbability with a stronger adversative force.

even if improbable

Suggests considering a scenario despite its low probability.

despite its improbability

Focuses on the improbability as a factor not preventing something.

improbable nonetheless

Asserts improbability but affirms the occurrence anyway.

surprisingly unlikely

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the improbability.

unexpected though it may be

Highlights the element of surprise alongside improbability.

implausible yet true

Contrasts the lack of believability with the reality of truth.

against all odds

Highlights the significant challenges overcome despite unlikelihood.

scarcely believable

Focuses on the difficulty in accepting the improbability.

FAQs

How can I use "yet improbable" in a sentence?

You can use "yet improbable" to describe a situation that is unlikely but still possible or has occurred despite the odds. For example, "The idea of winning the lottery seemed "yet improbable", but she bought a ticket anyway."

What are some alternatives to "yet improbable"?

Alternatives to "yet improbable" include "though unlikely", "however improbable", or "despite its improbability". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "yet improbable"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Yet" functions as a conjunction showing contrast, and "improbable" is an adjective describing something unlikely. The combination is standard English.

What's the difference between "yet improbable" and "but improbable"?

"Yet improbable" suggests a contrast where the improbability does not necessarily negate the possibility, whereas "but improbable" might emphasize the contrast more strongly, suggesting a greater degree of surprise or contradiction. "Yet" introduces a slightly softer contrast compared to "but".