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Definitions

probability

[prob-uh-bil-i-tee] / ˌprɒb əˈbɪl ɪ ti /
NOUN
likelihood of something happening
Synonyms
STRONGEST
anticipation chance contingency expectation feasibility odds possibility prospect
STRONG
chances conceivability credibility hazard liability likeliness plausibility practicability prayer presumption promise reasonableness shot toss-up
WEAK
outside chance snowball's chance
Antonyms
STRONGEST
certainty unlikelihood
STRONG
reality
WEAK
improbability

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But the smoothness of this mission - from launch to lunar flyby - has shifted the probability in the right direction.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

On Friday, CME data showed a 10.1% probability that the Fed could raise its benchmark rate to 3.75% to 4%, compared with the 0.2% chance of such a hike that traders priced in on Thursday.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

“The latest attacks increase the probability of a prolonged disruption scenario, where supply losses could persist even if geopolitical tensions ease, reinforcing upside risks to prices,” wrote ING analysts in a note on Monday.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

Using a percentage chance of a violation of the rules, launch weather officers use a combination of meteorological and climatological data, local knowledge, and experience to forecast this probability.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

This study is more impressive, even if less spectacular, than the earlier a priori probability argument.

From "Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences" by John Allen Paulos