B2adjectivelanguagescience
US/ɪmˈprɑː.bə.bəl/
UK/ɪmˈprɒb.ə.bəl/
not likely to happen or to be true
In context
It seems highly improbable that the two cases are connected.
The film tells an improbable story of two strangers who swap lives.
An improbable winner crossed the line first and shocked the crowd.
Words that go with improbable
adverb + adjective
- highly improbableA second storm this week is highly improbable.
verb + adjective
- seem improbableSuch a plan seems improbable to many experts.
adjective + noun
- improbable eventAn improbable event changed the course of history.
- improbable storyHe told an improbable story about a talking dog.
- improbable combinationThey were an improbable combination of artist and banker.
adjective + preposition
- improbable thatIt is improbable that the bridge will open on time.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
It is improbable to happen.Correct: It is improbable that it will happen.