Possibility vs Probability: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Possibility" expresses the potential for something to occur, while "probability" indicates the degree of likelihood that an event will happen.
Memory Tip: possibility = can happen, probability = likely to happen
possibility has 5 syllables, probability has 4 syllables
possibility /pəˌsɪbɪˈlɪti/
nounSomething that might happen or be true.
Example:
Although we have been discussing various options for the event, the possibility of holding it outdoors has been ruled out due to the unpredictable weather conditions.
Common patterns:
real possibility
slim possibility
explore possibilities
probability
nounProbability refers to the likelihood or chance of a particular event occurring, often expressed as a number between 0 and 1.
Example:
Although there is a possibility of rain tomorrow, the probability of it actually happening is quite low according to the weather forecast.
Common patterns:
high probability
low probability
probability theory
Common Mistakes
There's a high possibility of rain tomorrow.
There's a high probability of rain tomorrow.
Probability is used to express the likelihood of rain occurring.
The probability of life existing on other planets is intriguing.
The possibility of life existing on other planets is intriguing.
Possibility is used to express the potential for life to exist on other planets.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. Although we have been discussing various options for the event, the ____ of holding it outdoors has been ruled out due to the unpredictable weather conditions.
2. Although there is a possibility of rain tomorrow, the ____ of it actually happening is quite low according to the weather forecast.
Other Confusing Words
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