improbable

[im-prob-uh-buhl]

adjective

1. not probable; unlikely to be true or to happen.

   Rain is improbable tonight.

   Synonyms: implausible, doubtful, questionable

improbable

/ ɪmˈprɒbəbəl /

adjective

1. not likely or probable; doubtful; unlikely

Other Word Forms

• improbably adverb
• improbableness noun
• superimprobable adjective
• superimprobableness noun
• superimprobably adverb
• improbability noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of improbable¹

From the Latin word improbābilis, dating back to 1590–1600. See im- ², probable

Example Sentences

Yes: Alcaraz is the faster, showier player, capable of mad sprints to pull out improbable winners, but Sinner’s developed real range.

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By the final day of the Ryder Cup, captain Keegan Bradley knew Team USA’s chances were so bleak that he could only point to one of the most improbable comebacks of all time.

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And while the near comeback briefly delivered a glimmer of hope that the U.S. could pull off something improbable, it ultimately magnified how disastrous the first two days really were.

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It is one of a coach who has repeatedly made the improbable routine.

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Charlie Kirk told an improbable story: The right could make itself cool again and stage a massive cultural comeback.

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Related Words

• fanciful 
• implausible 
• rare 
• unbelievable 
• unlikely