Expressing Probability
Expressing Probability
Understanding Probability vs. Improbability
Probability refers to the likelihood of something happening, while improbability suggests something is unlikely to occur.
Expressing Probability
may
might
can
could
... will
probably
It's probable
likely
that ...
I doubt
suppose
guess
... will ...
'd be surprised if ...
Perhaps
May be
... will ...
Examples of Probability:
- It is probable that my grandfather will repair my bike.
- Perhaps the problem won’t be serious.
- It will probably rain this evening.
- I’m likely to do the work myself.
Examples of Improbability:
- No, probably not.
- I don't suppose my grandfather will repair the bike.
- I doubt my father will buy me a new computer.
- She is unlikely to return home early this evening.
- I'd be surprised if he got the best score.
- It's unlikely he will find his lost keys.
Expressing Probability in the Past:
may have
might have
can have
could have
Past Participle
Examples of Probability in the Past:
- He may have robbed your computer while you were out.
- The criminal might have threatened her; that's why she was afraid of him.
- The author could have conducted deep research on the subject, which is why his book is so interesting.
Examples of Improbability in the Past:
- He may not have lived in this town; nobody seems to know him.
- She can't have helped him in his crime; they have never met before.