Definition

The chance or likelihood that something will happen, often expressed as a number or ratio.

Example

The probability of winning the lottery is very low.

Conversation

Have you thought about the probability of winning the lottery?

Yeah, it's really low, but it’s fun to dream about it!

Right? I always check the numbers just in case there's a slight probability I might win.

Exactly! It's like a little hope every week.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Probability → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning for) and "babilitas" (from Latin "babilis", meaning able to be spoken). The word refers to the quality of being able to be spoken of or considered likely, hence the likelihood of an event occurring.

Memory Tip

Think of 'for' ('pro-') and 'able to be spoken of' ('babilitas') to remember that probability refers to the likelihood of something happening.

Visually Confused Words