Probabilities: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in mathematical, statistical, or scientific contexts to discuss the likelihood of various outcomes.

• The probabilities of different weather events can be calculated using historical data.
• We need to consider the probabilities before making our decision.

Often used in discussions where the probability or chance of something happening is being debated or considered, sometimes with a more formal tone.

• The likelihood of finding a solution is quite high.
• What's the likelihood that he'll change his mind?

Commonly used in everyday language to talk about the possibility of something happening, usually in a casual or non-technical manner.

• There's a good chance it will rain tomorrow.
• Do you think we stand a chance of winning?

Frequently used in gambling, betting, or any context where risks and benefits are being weighed. It often conveys a sense of weighing one outcome against another.

• The odds are in our favor to win this game.
• What are the odds of drawing an ace from the deck?

Use this in formal or scientific contexts when discussing the likelihood of various outcomes based on statistical data or mathematical reasoning.

• The probabilities of rolling a six on a fair die is 1 in 6.
• Scientists are calculating the probabilities of life existing on other planets.

Use this in semi-formal contexts to discuss the probability or chance of something happening, often when the outcome is somewhat predictable.

• The likelihood of her passing the exam is quite high.
• We need to assess the likelihood of project success before proceeding.

This word is appropriate in casual contexts to describe a possibility of something happening, often without precise calculation.

• There's a chance it might rain tomorrow.
• He took a chance and invested in a new company.

Commonly used in gambling or informal settings to describe the probability of a specific outcome, often in a ratio form. Can sometimes have a negative or risky connotation.

• The odds of winning the lottery are very low.
• What are the odds that we'll run into each other in such a big city?

Often used in scientific, mathematical, or statistical contexts where numerical values are assigned to the likelihood of events.

• The probabilities of rolling a six on a die are 1 in 6.
• Scientists calculate the probabilities of different outcomes in their experiments.

Used to describe how probable something is, often in formal or semi-formal contexts. Sometimes implies a higher probability.

• There is a strong likelihood that the project will be delayed.
• The likelihood of success is higher if we start early.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe the possibility of something happening, often without specifying exact numbers.

• There is a chance it might rain tomorrow.
• You should take a chance and apply for that job.

Frequently used in contexts related to gambling, betting, or when comparing the likelihood of different outcomes.

• The odds of winning the lottery are extremely low.
• What are the odds we'll bump into each other in a city this big?