Definition

The state or quality of being unlikely to happen or occur.

Example

The improbability of winning the lottery makes it a rare event.

Conversation

Did you hear about that lottery winner?

Yeah, the odds were crazy! It was pure improbability.

I know, right? It's hard to believe someone actually won.

It just shows that sometimes, the improbability can happen.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Improbability is formed from "im-" (meaning not) and "probabilis" (from Latin, meaning provable or likely) and the suffix "-ity" (meaning the state or quality of). The word refers to the state of being not likely or not probable.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('im-') and 'likely' ('probabilis') to remember that 'improbability' means the quality of being unlikely.

Visually Confused Words