improbability

American  

[im-prob-uh-bil-i-tee, im-prob-] / ɪmˌprɒb əˈbɪl ɪ ti, ˌɪm prɒb- /

noun

plural

improbabilities

1. the quality or condition of being improbable; unlikelihood.

2. something improbable or unlikely.

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Etymology

Origin of improbability

First recorded in 1590–1600; improbable + -ity

Example Sentences

One posits the existence of billions of universes, arguing that happenstance alone accounts for the improbability of our inhabiting this one.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

"The inherent improbability that such a large number of journalists would do that should be borne in mind," White argued.

From Barron's • Jan. 20, 2026

I wish I could tell you I respected the improbability of the windfall by immediately retreating to my suite.

From Slate • Nov. 18, 2025

Such improbability is what propelled the Club 27 myth to prominence, and subsequent deaths — especially Kurt Cobain’s passing — continue to fuel its mystique, Dunivin said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 5, 2024

Of every improbability packed into that moment, this struck him the most forcefully.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor