Probability vs possibility

The terms 'probability' and 'possibility' are related but have distinct meanings. 'Probability' refers to the likelihood of something happening based on available information or evidence, while 'possibility' simply indicates that something can occur without specifying the likelihood. They are not interchangeable, as 'probability' implies a quantifiable chance, whereas 'possibility' is more general.

Last updated: November 04, 2024 • 984 views

Correct. 'Probability' refers to the likelihood of an event happening based on available information or evidence.

"Probability"

Use 'probability' when discussing the chance or likelihood of an event occurring, often in a quantitative or measurable context.

Examples:

The probability of rain tomorrow is 80%.
What is the probability of winning the lottery?
The probability of success increases with more practice.
Calculating the probability of a coin landing on heads is straightforward.
There is a high probability of delays due to the weather.

Show examples from the web [+]

Bank internal 1 Year Probability of Default.
Probability theory plays an important role.
c. 'Integrated navigation systems', designed or modified for 'missiles' and capable of providing a navigational accuracy of 200 m Circle of Equal Probability (CEP) or less;
Probability of health/safety damage from regular exposure to hazardous product
Choice models include two new Profilers: Multiple Choice and Probability.
The Probability with which the obsolescence will be taken place.
Probability alone is not enough to decide a case.
Probability of indigenous dissident group rendering effective assistance, very low.
Post Previous: Using Probability Of Hair Transplant
Probability assessment indicates that you are being coerced by Cardassian forces.
Probability assessment indicates you are attempting to detonate the explosive before it reaches its target.
Probability theory dictates that one cannot predict the future with any absolute certainty.
Probability of damage during the foreseeable lifetime of the product
Probability of default (only for credit institutions applying an internal ratings-based approach)
Probability of default of a counterparty over a one-year period, in accordance with Directive 2006/48/EC or successive acts.
Cancrini Nicoletta MAT/06 - Probability and statistics
Day Weather Temp. Wind Probability ofrainfalls
Day Weather Temperature Wind Probability of precipitations
Combinaison Probability Average winnings (€)
Probability value for which the standard logarithmic distribution is to be calculated

Alternatives:

likelihood
chance
odds
likelihood
possibility

Correct. 'Possibility' refers to the fact that something can occur without specifying the likelihood.

"possibility"

Use 'possibility' to indicate that something can happen without quantifying the chance or likelihood. It is a more general term compared to 'probability.'

Examples:

There is a possibility of rain later today.
The project's success is within the realm of possibility.
There is a slight possibility that the meeting will be postponed.
Exploring all possibilities before making a decision is important.
The possibility of finding a solution is still open.

Show examples from the web [+]

5 days ago ... a chance that something may happen or be true: It's not likely to happen but I wouldn't rule out the possibility.
The meaning of POSSIBILITY is the condition or fact of being possible. How to use possibility in a sentence.
noun · the state or fact of being possible: the possibility of error. Synonyms: odds, likelihood, prospect, chance · something possible: He had exhausted every ...
Jun 22, 2024 ... Having grown up in a void of information about trans people's lives, her website both created a sense of possibility, and made transition seem ...

Alternatives:

potential
option
chance
likelihood
probability

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Probability vs possibility

"Probability"

"possibility"

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