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Probability Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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probability

[ˌprɒb.əˈbɪl.ɪ.ti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

The likelihood of a particular event or outcome occurring, expressed as a number between 0 and 1, where 0 indicates impossibility and 1 indicates certainty.

Synonyms

chance, likelihood, odds.

Examples of usage

  • The probability of rolling a six on a fair six-sided die is 1/6.
  • There is a high probability of rain tomorrow based on the weather forecast.
Context #2 | Noun

statistics

A measure of the likelihood of an event occurring, often used in the context of experiments and surveys.

Synonyms

chance, likelihood, odds.

Examples of usage

  • The researchers calculated the probability of the drug being effective at 75%.
  • The probability of winning the lottery is extremely low.
Context #3 | Noun

general

The extent to which something is likely to happen or be true.

Synonyms

chance, likelihood, odds.

Examples of usage

  • There is a high probability that she will get the job based on her qualifications.
  • The probability of success increases with careful planning.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • The concept of probability dates back to the 16th century and is closely related to gambling games.
  • In probability theory, the chance of something happening is usually presented as a number between 0 (impossible) and 1 (certain).
  • There are different types of probability such as theoretical, experimental, and subjective, each offering a unique way to assess likelihood.

History

  • Probability began to take shape through early mathematicians like Gerolamo Cardano, who studied the odds of winning in dice games.
  • In the 18th century, Pierre-Simon Laplace further advanced the field, establishing foundational principles still used today.
  • The word itself comes from the Latin 'probabilitas', meaning 'worthiness' or 'credibility', indicating how strongly something is believed to be true.

Science

  • In genetics, probability is used to predict the likelihood of offspring inheriting certain traits.
  • Quantum mechanics heavily relies on probability, as it deals with the behavior of particles at microscopic levels where certainty is elusive.
  • Probabilities are fundamental in risk assessment, helping scientists evaluate the chance of events like natural disasters.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often use probability to create suspense; for example, the chance of survival in a horror film can keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
  • In games and sports, probability affects strategies for betting and planning, influencing how teams and individuals prepare for competition.
  • Popular board games like Monopoly and Yahtzee use chance and probability to determine outcomes, making them more exciting.

Psychology

  • Human decision-making often involves estimating probabilities, but biases can lead people to misjudge likelihoods.
  • The 'gambler's fallacy' is a common psychological phenomenon where people believe past events affect future probabilities, like thinking a coin is 'due' for heads.
  • Research shows that perception of risk and probability can vary significantly based on personal experiences and emotions.

Origin of 'probability'

The word 'probability' originated in the mid-16th century from the Latin word 'probabilitas', which means 'likelihood'. The concept of probability has been studied for centuries, with contributions from mathematicians, statisticians, and philosophers. It plays a crucial role in various fields such as mathematics, statistics, economics, and science.

See also: improbable.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,171, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.