The probability/probabilities of that happening is/are

[Omega Force]

Hello.

Do we say

"The probability of that happening is..."

or

"The probabilities of that happening are..."

?

Are there any real difference between the two?

Thanks in advance for your answers.

 

[dumbfounded]

"The probability of that [COLOR=#D50000 !important]happening[/COLOR] is..." is right.

 

[Li'l Bull]

I have a further question: How would you continue the sentence if the event is unlikely?:

The probabilities of that happening are very...?

a) ... slim
b) ... low
c) none of the above

Thank you in advance.

 

[boozer]

I would not use probabilities in the plural. I might use the singular, in which case I would say the probability was low.

If I wanted to use a plural noun, I would say 'chances' thereby making both a and b possible...

 

[sdgraham]

Use "probability" (singular) since there can be only one probability for any one stated condition, such as you provide.

This existing thread might provide some insight. odds/probability

 

[Li'l Bull]

If I wanted to use a plural noun, I would say 'chances' thereby making both a and b possible...

Thanks, boozer. Can you really say "The chances of that happening are low"? I agree that "chances" collocate with "slim" but, with "low"?

This existing thread might provide some insight. odds/probability

Thanks, sdgraham. A mathematical jargon-laden thread, but it does contain some posts I find useful.

 

[boozer]

Thanks, boozer. Can you really say "The chances of that happening are low"? I agree that "chances" collocate with "slim" but, with "low"?

Well, it would not always be my first choice, but surely has been said before. BNC:
They say drug-abusing mothers who would previously have had an abortion are bearing sickly babies with low chances of survival.
Of that, 95 per cent goes back in prizes on cash bingo — less for prize bingo — but the individual's chances are low.