In 15 Seconds
- Means something is likely or probable.
- Uses a double negative for caution.
- Best for formal/professional settings.
- Avoid in casual chats or with friends.
Meaning
Basically, `it is not improbable that` means something is **quite likely** to happen. Think of it as a super polite and slightly formal way to say 'it's probable' or 'it's likely.' It uses a double negative (`not` + `improbable`) to soften the statement, making it sound less like a bold prediction and more like a carefully considered possibility. It carries a vibe of intellectual caution, often used when you want to express a strong likelihood without committing to absolute certainty. It’s the kind of phrase you might hear in a thoughtful discussion or a carefully worded report, hinting at a strong possibility without sounding overly confident or pushy.
Key Examples
3 of 12Professional email to a colleague
Regarding the Q3 report, it is not improbable that we will need to adjust the projections based on recent market volatility.
Regarding the Q3 report, it is likely that we will need to adjust the projections based on recent market volatility.
Academic discussion
Based on the historical data, it is not improbable that this artistic movement influenced later generations.
Based on the historical data, it is likely that this artistic movement influenced later generations.
Analyzing a plot in a TV show
Given the foreshadowing, it is not improbable that the seemingly innocent character is actually the villain.
Given the foreshadowing, it is likely that the seemingly innocent character is actually the villain.
Cultural Background
The phrase `it is not improbable that` likely emerged from the tradition of careful, often legalistic or scholarly, argumentation in English. Its double negative structure is a linguistic feature that allows for nuanced qualification, a hallmark of precise (and sometimes deliberately evasive) language. It reflects a cultural value placed on intellectual caution and the avoidance of absolute certainty, particularly in formal discourse where precision and measured judgment are prized.
Mastering the Double Negative
Remember, `not improbable` = likely. This double negative structure adds a layer of sophistication, but always check if a simpler word like 'likely' or 'probable' would sound more natural.
The 'Trying Too Hard' Trap
Using `it is not improbable that` in casual chats can make you sound like you're showing off or trying to be overly intellectual. Stick to professional or academic settings unless you're aiming for humorous effect!
In 15 Seconds
- Means something is likely or probable.
- Uses a double negative for caution.
- Best for formal/professional settings.
- Avoid in casual chats or with friends.
What It Means
This phrase is all about expressing likelihood, but with a touch of class and caution. When you say it is not improbable that, you're really saying something is likely or probable. The magic (or maybe the confusion!) comes from the double negative: not + improbable. Improbable means unlikely. So, not improbable flips that around to mean likely. It’s a way to sound thoughtful and measured, especially when you’re talking about something that isn’t a sure bet but has a good chance of happening. It’s like saying, 'Given the evidence, I wouldn't be surprised if this happened.' It’s definitely not a casual 'OMG, this is gonna happen!' kind of phrase.
How To Use It
You’ll use this when you want to suggest a strong possibility without sounding like you’re stating a fact. Imagine you're discussing a project deadline. If you think the team might miss it, you could say, It is not improbable that we will need an extension. It sounds much more considered than just saying, 'We'll probably miss the deadline.' You can also use it in academic writing, business reports, or even when giving careful advice. It fits perfectly when you're analyzing a situation and predicting an outcome based on current trends or data. Think of it as your go-to for sophisticated guesswork. It's like adding a little intellectual flair to your predictions, making them sound well-reasoned and not just wild guesses. You're basically saying, 'The signs point this way.'
Formality & Register
This phrase leans towards the formal side. You wouldn't typically use it when texting your best friend about weekend plans. It sounds a bit too serious for that! Think more along the lines of a university lecture, a serious news report, or a professional email. It's the kind of language you might find in a legal document or a scientific paper. Using it in a very casual setting might sound a bit stiff or even pretentious, like you're trying too hard to sound smart. But in the right context, it adds a layer of gravitas and careful consideration. It’s a subtle way to signal that you’ve thought things through. Imagine a detective explaining their theory – they might use this phrase. It's not slang; it's cultivated language.
Real-Life Examples
- Academic Paper:
It is not improbable that climate change will affect global food security.(Sounds authoritative!) - Business Meeting:
Given the current market trends, it is not improbable that our competitor will launch a similar product.(Sounds strategic.) - News Analysis:
Following the recent political shifts, it is not improbable that new elections will be called.(Sounds informed.) - Scientific Research:
Based on the preliminary data, it is not improbable that the new drug will show significant efficacy.(Sounds cautious but optimistic.) - Literary Criticism:
It is not improbable that the author intended a double meaning in this passage.(Sounds analytical.)
When To Use It
Use it is not improbable that when you want to express a strong likelihood but need to maintain a formal or professional tone. It's perfect for situations where certainty is impossible, but you need to convey a high probability. Think of presenting findings, making predictions in a business context, or discussing potential outcomes in a serious setting. It’s also great when you want to sound objective and avoid making definitive statements. If you're a weather forecaster discussing a potential storm, you might say, It is not improbable that heavy rainfall will occur. It sounds more professional than 'It's gonna rain cats and dogs!' It signals you've weighed the possibilities. It's your best friend when you need to hedge your bets politely.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase in casual conversations. Texting your friend about grabbing pizza? Definitely not the time. Using it with close friends or family about everyday matters can make you sound overly formal or even a bit robotic. It’s also not suitable for expressing strong emotions or personal opinions where directness is preferred. If you're excited about a concert, you wouldn't say, It is not improbable that I will enjoy the show. You'd just say, 'I'm so excited! I'm going to love it!' Save this phrase for when you need to sound measured, analytical, and professional. It’s not for jokes, quick remarks, or expressing simple enthusiasm. Don't use it when you mean 'definitely' or 'certainly,' as it implies a degree of uncertainty.
Common Mistakes
One common pitfall is using it too casually, which can sound awkward. Another is using it when a simpler phrase like 'likely' or 'probably' would suffice and sound more natural. Sometimes, people overuse double negatives, making sentences convoluted.
It is not improbable that we'll go to the movies.
✓It's likely we'll go to the movies. or We'll probably go to the movies. (Sounds much more natural for casual chat.)
It is not improbable that you are wrong.
✓You might be wrong. or It's possible you're mistaken. (The original sounds overly formal and a bit accusatory for most situations.)
It is not improbable that I'm hungry.
✓I'm pretty hungry. (Way too formal for a basic need!)
Common Variations
While it is not improbable that is the standard, you might occasionally hear slight variations. Sometimes, people might say it seems not improbable that, adding an extra layer of observation. In very rare, perhaps archaic contexts, you might see it is improbable that... not, but this is extremely uncommon and confusing. The core structure not improbable is quite stable. You'll mostly encounter the standard form. Think of it like a classic car model – reliable and recognizable. Other ways to express similar ideas include it is likely that, it is probable that, there is a good chance that, or one might expect that. These alternatives offer different shades of formality and certainty.
Real Conversations
Speaker 1: So, what's your take on the new project proposal?
Speaker 2: Well, the initial feedback has been positive. It is not improbable that the board will approve it.
Speaker 1: I heard they're considering a new streaming service.
Speaker 2: Yes, and given Netflix's dominance, it is not improbable that any new service will struggle initially.
Speaker 1 (Texting): Hey, you think it'll rain later? My picnic is planned!
Speaker 2 (Texting): The forecast looks iffy. It is not improbable that we'll get showers, so maybe have a backup plan? (This is a bit formal for texting, but shows the phrase in action.)
Quick FAQ
- Is this phrase common? Not super common in everyday chat, but you'll see it in more formal writing and speech.
- Can I use it in emails? Yes, especially professional or academic emails.
- What's the opposite?
It is improbable that...means something is unlikely. - Does it sound old-fashioned? A little bit, but mostly it sounds educated and careful.
- Is it always negative? The structure is a double negative, but the meaning is positive (likely).
- What if I want to be more casual? Use
probably,likely,might, orcould.
Usage Notes
This phrase is best reserved for formal or academic writing and speech. Using it in casual conversation can sound overly stiff or pretentious. Its strength lies in conveying a high degree of likelihood while maintaining a cautious, measured tone, making it ideal for hedging in professional contexts.
Mastering the Double Negative
Remember, `not improbable` = likely. This double negative structure adds a layer of sophistication, but always check if a simpler word like 'likely' or 'probable' would sound more natural.
The 'Trying Too Hard' Trap
Using `it is not improbable that` in casual chats can make you sound like you're showing off or trying to be overly intellectual. Stick to professional or academic settings unless you're aiming for humorous effect!
The British Influence?
While not exclusively British, this kind of nuanced, double-negative phrasing is often associated with British English's tendency towards understatement and politeness in formal contexts. It reflects a cultural appreciation for careful, measured expression.
When Certainty is Unwise
This phrase is your best friend when you need to express a strong possibility but can't be 100% sure. It protects you from sounding overly confident or making guarantees you can't keep.
Examples
12Regarding the Q3 report, it is not improbable that we will need to adjust the projections based on recent market volatility.
Regarding the Q3 report, it is likely that we will need to adjust the projections based on recent market volatility.
Softens the prediction about needing adjustments, making it sound like a reasoned analysis.
Based on the historical data, it is not improbable that this artistic movement influenced later generations.
Based on the historical data, it is likely that this artistic movement influenced later generations.
Expresses a strong academic hypothesis without stating it as absolute fact.
Given the foreshadowing, it is not improbable that the seemingly innocent character is actually the villain.
Given the foreshadowing, it is likely that the seemingly innocent character is actually the villain.
Sounds like an insightful observation rather than a simple guess.
When asked about potential challenges in the role, I'd say, 'It is not improbable that managing cross-departmental communication will require significant effort.'
When asked about potential challenges in the role, I'd say, 'It is likely that managing cross-departmental communication will require significant effort.'
Shows thoughtful consideration of challenges without sounding negative or overly certain.
My laundry pile is reaching epic proportions. It is not improbable that I will soon be wearing mismatched socks exclusively. #LaundryDay #SendHelp
My laundry pile is reaching epic proportions. It is likely that I will soon be wearing mismatched socks exclusively. #LaundryDay #SendHelp
Uses the formal phrase humorously for exaggeration.
I just finished that new sci-fi flick. It is not improbable that the ending will leave you confused!
I just finished that new sci-fi flick. It is likely that the ending will leave you confused!
A bit formal for texting, but conveys the idea that the ending is probably confusing.
✗ It is not improbable that we'll grab pizza later.
✗ It is likely that we'll grab pizza later.
This sounds way too formal for a casual suggestion about pizza.
✗ It is not improbable that I need coffee.
✗ It is likely that I need coffee.
This is far too formal for expressing a simple personal need like needing coffee.
After hearing the diagnosis, it is not improbable that she felt a wave of fear wash over her.
After hearing the diagnosis, it is likely that she felt a wave of fear wash over her.
Expresses a probable emotional reaction in a sensitive, empathetic way.
Given the evidence presented, it is not improbable that the defendant was present at the scene.
Given the evidence presented, it is likely that the defendant was present at the scene.
Carefully worded statement appropriate for legal proceedings.
It is not improbable that AI will automate many current job roles within the next decade.
It is likely that AI will automate many current job roles within the next decade.
A measured prediction about a complex future trend.
It is not improbable that the author drew inspiration from their own life experiences for the protagonist.
It is likely that the author drew inspiration from their own life experiences for the protagonist.
Offers a plausible interpretation of the author's intent.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
`It is not improbable that` means it's likely, which fits the context of a likely postponement due to weather.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.
Which sentence uses 'it is not improbable that' appropriately?
Option C uses the phrase in a formal, analytical context where it signifies a likely conclusion based on evidence. Options A and B are too casual, and D uses the phrase incorrectly.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
While 'not improbable' means likely, using 'likely' directly is more natural and less formal for this context. The original phrasing sounds overly cautious or even slightly sarcastic.
Choose the best option to complete the sentence.
This phrase suggests a strong likelihood suitable for business analysis, indicating a merger is a distinct possibility without being a certainty.
Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.
The detective believed ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ a clue was hidden in the letter.
In a detective scenario, suggesting a clue is likely, but not absolutely certain, fits the cautious, analytical tone of 'it is not improbable that'.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The phrase 'it is not improbable that' is too formal for expressing a simple personal state like hunger. A direct statement is much more appropriate.
Fill in the blank.
This fits a situation where a delay is a strong possibility, fitting the meaning of 'not improbable'.
Translate this sentence into English.
While 'Il est probable que' directly translates to 'It is probable that', 'It is not improbable that' captures a similar nuance of likelihood with a slightly more cautious, formal tone often found in analytical contexts.
🎉 Score: /8
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum for 'It is not improbable that'
Casual chat, texting, slang.
Might grab food later.
Talking with friends, relaxed emails.
Probably going to rain.
General conversation, most emails.
Likely to be delayed.
Reports, academic writing, professional settings.
It is not improbable that the project will succeed.
Legal documents, highly technical papers.
Herein, it is not improbable that unforeseen circumstances may arise.
Where You'll Hear 'It is not improbable that'
Business Strategy Meeting
It is not improbable that our competitor will launch a new product soon.
Academic Lecture
It is not improbable that early civilizations developed agriculture independently.
Scientific Research Paper
It is not improbable that the compound exhibits therapeutic properties.
Legal Analysis
It is not improbable that the evidence points towards guilt.
News Commentary
It is not improbable that the policy change will have significant consequences.
Formal Debate
It is not improbable that the opposing argument overlooks key factors.
Comparing Likelihood Phrases
Usage Contexts for 'It is not improbable that'
Academic
- • Research findings
- • Theoretical possibilities
- • Historical analysis
Professional
- • Market predictions
- • Risk assessment
- • Project forecasts
Analytical
- • Interpreting data
- • Drawing conclusions
- • Logical deductions
Formal Speech
- • Presentations
- • Debates
- • Official statements
Practice Bank
8 exercisesGiven the weather forecast, ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ that the outdoor concert will be postponed.
`It is not improbable that` means it's likely, which fits the context of a likely postponement due to weather.
Which sentence uses 'it is not improbable that' appropriately?
Option C uses the phrase in a formal, analytical context where it signifies a likely conclusion based on evidence. Options A and B are too casual, and D uses the phrase incorrectly.
Find and fix the mistake:
It is not improbable that you will enjoy the movie.
While 'not improbable' means likely, using 'likely' directly is more natural and less formal for this context. The original phrasing sounds overly cautious or even slightly sarcastic.
Considering the company's recent performance, ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ a merger in the near future.
This phrase suggests a strong likelihood suitable for business analysis, indicating a merger is a distinct possibility without being a certainty.
The detective believed ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ a clue was hidden in the letter.
In a detective scenario, suggesting a clue is likely, but not absolutely certain, fits the cautious, analytical tone of 'it is not improbable that'.
Find and fix the mistake:
It is not improbable that I'm feeling hungry.
The phrase 'it is not improbable that' is too formal for expressing a simple personal state like hunger. A direct statement is much more appropriate.
It is ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ that the train will be delayed.
This fits a situation where a delay is a strong possibility, fitting the meaning of 'not improbable'.
Il est probable qu'il pleuve demain.
Hints: Consider the double negative., Focus on formal equivalents.
While 'Il est probable que' directly translates to 'It is probable that', 'It is not improbable that' captures a similar nuance of likelihood with a slightly more cautious, formal tone often found in analytical contexts.
🎉 Score: /8
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
20 questionsIt's a formal way of saying something is likely to happen. The phrase uses a double negative ('not' and 'improbable') to soften the statement, making it sound less like a bold prediction and more like a carefully considered possibility. Think of it as a sophisticated 'probably'.
No, it's not very common in everyday casual conversation. You're much more likely to encounter it in formal writing like academic papers, business reports, or professional emails. It sounds quite serious for chatting with friends.
Certainly! Imagine you're in a business meeting discussing a new product launch. You could say, 'Given the market research, it is not improbable that the product will be well-received.' This sounds more measured than saying 'It will definitely be a hit!'
'Improbable' means something is unlikely to happen. So, 'not improbable' flips that meaning around, suggesting that something is actually quite likely to happen. It's like saying 'unlikely' is false, therefore 'likely' is true, but in a more formal and cautious way.
It's definitely on the formal side. You'd use it in contexts where you need to sound educated, professional, and careful, such as in academic essays, legal documents, or serious business communications. It's not something you'd use when texting your friends.
This level of formality is appropriate when you're presenting findings, making predictions based on data, or discussing potential outcomes in a professional or academic setting. It signals that you've thought carefully and are avoiding absolute certainty.
Yes, absolutely! For less formal situations, you can use 'It's likely that...', 'It's probable that...', 'Probably...', or 'Most likely...'. These are more common and sound more natural in everyday English.
Alternatives include 'it is likely that', 'it is probable that', 'there's a good chance that', or 'one might expect that'. Each has slightly different nuances in formality and certainty, but they all express likelihood.
It can make you sound more educated or analytical in the right context, like a formal report. However, using it inappropriately in casual conversation might make you sound pretentious or overly stiff, so choose your moments wisely!
Phrases like this, with their careful use of double negatives, often stem from legal or scholarly traditions where precision and avoiding absolute statements were crucial. It reflects a cultural value placed on intellectual caution and measured expression in formal discourse.
It exists to provide a specific nuance: expressing strong likelihood while maintaining a high degree of formality and caution. It allows the speaker or writer to hedge their bets intellectually, sounding considered rather than definitive.
While not exclusive to British English, this type of nuanced, double-negative phrasing aligns with a cultural tendency towards understatement and politeness often found in formal British communication. It signals careful consideration.
A frequent mistake is using it in casual situations, like texting a friend. For example, saying 'It is not improbable that we'll get pizza' sounds overly formal and awkward. A simple 'We'll probably get pizza' is much better.
Another mistake is using it when a simple adjective would do. Saying 'It is not improbable that the movie was good' is clunky. Just saying 'The movie was likely good' or 'The movie was probably good' is more natural, or even 'I think the movie was good.'
It implies a significant degree of likelihood, but not absolute certainty. The speaker believes X happening is a strong possibility, but acknowledges there's still a chance it might not. It's a calculated prediction.
'It is possible that' suggests a lower degree of likelihood – something *could* happen, but it's not necessarily probable. 'It is not improbable that' indicates a much higher probability, leaning strongly towards it actually happening.
Yes, it can be used sarcastically, especially if the situation described is obviously untrue or highly unlikely. For example, if someone claims they finished all their chores instantly, you might say dryly, 'Oh yes, it is not improbable that you did all that work in five minutes.' The formal phrasing contrasts humorously with the absurdity.
The direct opposite is 'it is improbable that', which means something is unlikely to happen. You could also use phrases like 'it is unlikely that' or 'it is doubtful that'.
Absolutely! It's excellent for hedging in academic writing. It allows you to present a strong hypothesis or interpretation based on evidence without overstating your certainty, which is crucial for maintaining academic rigor.
A close translation in Spanish would be 'No es improbable que...' or perhaps more naturally in many contexts, 'Es probable que...' (It is probable that...). The nuance of the double negative is captured, though direct usage might vary depending on regional formality.
Related Phrases
It is likely that
synonymExpresses a high probability of something happening.
This is a more direct and common synonym that expresses a similar high degree of likelihood without the double negative.
It is probable that
synonymIndicates that something has a strong chance of occurring.
Similar to 'it is likely that', this phrase offers a direct way to state a high probability, often used interchangeably in formal contexts.
It is improbable that
antonymExpresses that something is unlikely to happen.
This phrase is the direct opposite, conveying a low chance of something occurring, whereas 'not improbable' suggests a high chance.
Probably
informal versionUsed to indicate that something is likely or possible.
This is the most common informal equivalent, suitable for everyday conversation where 'it is not improbable that' would sound too stiff.
There's a good chance that
related topicSuggests a strong possibility, often used in spoken English.
This phrase also indicates likelihood but is more conversational and less formal than 'it is not improbable that'.
It is conceivable that
related topicSuggests something is possible to imagine or believe, but doesn't necessarily imply high probability.
While related to possibility, 'conceivable' is less about probability and more about imagination, making it distinct from the strong likelihood implied by 'not improbable'.
