Have you ever wondered about the difference between the words plausible and probable? While they may seem interchangeable, there are subtle differences in their meanings that can impact how we use them in conversation and writing. In this article, we will explore the nuances of these two words and provide examples of when to use each one.
Let’s define what each word means. Plausible refers to something that is believable or reasonable, even if it may not be completely true or accurate. Probable, on the other hand, refers to something that is likely to happen or be true based on available evidence or past experiences.
So, which one is the proper word to use? The answer is that it depends on the context and what you are trying to convey. While both words can be used to describe something that is possible or likely, plausible often implies a level of uncertainty or doubt, while probable suggests a higher degree of confidence or certainty.
For example, if you were to say that it is plausible that aliens exist, you are acknowledging that there is some evidence or argument to support this idea, but you are not necessarily saying that you believe it to be true. On the other hand, if you were to say that it is probable that it will rain tomorrow based on the weather forecast, you are expressing a higher level of confidence in this prediction.
Throughout the rest of this article, we will explore different scenarios where one word may be more appropriate than the other, and how to use them effectively in your writing and communication.
Define Plausible
Plausible refers to something that appears to be reasonable or believable, but may not necessarily be true or based on concrete evidence. It is often used to describe a situation or explanation that could be possible, but is not necessarily the most likely or accurate.
For example, a conspiracy theory may be considered plausible because it is not entirely impossible, but lacks substantial evidence to support it.
Plausibility is subjective and can vary depending on individual beliefs and perspectives. What may seem plausible to one person may not seem plausible to another.
Define Probable
Probable refers to something that is more likely to occur or be true based on available evidence or past experiences. It is often used to describe a situation or explanation that is supported by a significant amount of evidence or logic.
For example, it is probable that the sun will rise tomorrow because it has consistently done so in the past and there is scientific evidence to support this occurrence.
Probable is often used in statistics and probability to describe the likelihood of an event occurring. It is typically represented as a percentage or fraction, with higher probabilities indicating a greater likelihood of the event happening.
| Plausible | Probable |
|---|---|
| Appears reasonable or believable | Supported by evidence or logic |
| May not necessarily be true | More likely to be true |
| Subjective | Objective |
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to using words in a sentence, it’s important to understand their meanings and how they differ from each other. Two words that often confuse people are plausible and probable. In this section, we will discuss how to use these words in a sentence properly.
How To Use Plausible In A Sentence
The word plausible is used to describe something that is believable or reasonable. It is often used when there is some evidence to support a claim, but not enough to prove it definitively. Here are some examples of how to use plausible in a sentence:
- Her explanation for being late seemed plausible, but I still had my doubts.
- The theory presented by the scientist was plausible, but it needed more testing to be confirmed.
- It is plausible that the company will see an increase in profits next quarter, based on their recent sales data.
As you can see, plausible is often used when there is some uncertainty or doubt surrounding a claim or explanation.
How To Use Probable In A Sentence
The word probable is used to describe something that is likely or expected to happen. It is often used when there is a high degree of certainty or evidence to support a claim. Here are some examples of how to use probable in a sentence:
- Based on the weather forecast, it is probable that it will rain tomorrow.
- It is probable that the team will win the championship, given their strong performance this season.
- The doctor said it was probable that the patient would make a full recovery, but it would take some time.
As you can see, probable is often used when there is a high degree of confidence or certainty surrounding a claim or prediction.
More Examples Of Plausible & Probable Used In Sentences
In order to better understand the difference between plausible and probable, it’s helpful to see them used in context. Here are some examples of how these words can be used in a sentence:
Examples Of Using Plausible In A Sentence
- It seems plausible that the company will go bankrupt if they don’t make some changes.
- The theory that aliens exist is plausible, but it hasn’t been proven yet.
- Her excuse for being late was plausible, but I still think she was just running behind schedule.
- The detective thought it was plausible that the suspect had a motive for the crime.
- It’s plausible that the new drug will be effective, but we won’t know for sure until we conduct more tests.
- The idea that the universe is a simulation is plausible, but it’s difficult to prove.
- It’s plausible that the company will merge with another one in the next few years.
- The explanation for the strange noise was plausible, but it turned out to be something else entirely.
- It’s plausible that the politician will win the election, but there are still a lot of undecided voters.
- The theory that ghosts exist is plausible to some people, but others think it’s ridiculous.
Examples Of Using Probable In A Sentence
- It’s probable that it will rain tomorrow based on the forecast.
- The doctor said it’s probable that the patient will recover fully from the surgery.
- It’s probable that the team will win the championship this year, but they still have some tough competition ahead.
- The police officer thought it was probable that the suspect had fled the scene of the crime.
- Based on his experience, the coach thought it was probable that the player would make a full recovery from the injury.
- It’s probable that the company will see an increase in profits this quarter.
- The scientist said it’s probable that the new discovery will lead to new advancements in the field.
- It’s probable that the stock market will experience some volatility in the next few weeks.
- The judge thought it was probable that the defendant was guilty based on the evidence presented.
- It’s probable that the project will be completed on time, but there are still some potential obstacles to overcome.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words plausible and probable, people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have distinct meanings and should not be used in place of each other. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using Plausible When You Mean Probable
Plausible means something that is believable or reasonable, while probable means something that is likely to happen or be true. Using plausible when you mean probable can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. For example, saying “It’s plausible that it will rain tomorrow” when you really mean “It’s probable that it will rain tomorrow” can give the impression that the chance of rain is lower than it actually is.
Using Probable When You Mean Plausible
Conversely, using probable when you mean plausible can also lead to confusion. For example, saying “It’s probable that aliens exist” when you really mean “It’s plausible that aliens exist” implies a higher degree of certainty than is actually warranted. It’s important to use the correct word to accurately convey your intended meaning.
Not Considering Context
Another common mistake is not considering the context in which you are using these words. Plausible and probable can have different meanings depending on the situation. For example, in a court of law, plausible means that something is believable based on the evidence presented, while probable means that something is more likely than not to have occurred. Understanding the context in which you are using these words is crucial to using them correctly.
Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes
- Take the time to understand the difference between plausible and probable
- Consider the context in which you are using these words
- Double-check your usage to ensure you are using the correct word
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between plausible and probable, the context in which these terms are used can make all the difference. While they may seem interchangeable at first glance, the choice between the two can have significant implications depending on the situation at hand.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between plausible and probable might change:
Scientific Research
In the context of scientific research, the choice between plausible and probable can be crucial. Plausible refers to something that is reasonable or believable, while probable refers to something that is likely or expected to happen. In this context, scientists must often make judgments about the plausibility or probability of different theories or hypotheses.
For example, let’s say a scientist is studying the effects of a new drug on a particular disease. If the data suggests that the drug is having a positive effect, the scientist might say that it is plausible that the drug could be an effective treatment. However, if the data is more robust and consistent, the scientist might say that it is probable that the drug will be an effective treatment.
Legal Proceedings
In the context of legal proceedings, the choice between plausible and probable can also be important. Plausible evidence is evidence that is believable or reasonable, while probable evidence is evidence that is likely to be true. In this context, lawyers and judges must often make judgments about the plausibility or probability of different pieces of evidence.
For example, let’s say a defendant is accused of a crime and there is a witness who claims to have seen the defendant at the scene of the crime. If the witness’s story seems plausible but there is no other evidence to support it, the defense might argue that the evidence is not probable enough to convict the defendant. On the other hand, if there is physical evidence that places the defendant at the scene of the crime, the prosecution might argue that the evidence is not only plausible but also probable.
Everyday Conversations
Even in everyday conversations, the choice between plausible and probable can make a difference. Plausible statements are ones that make sense or seem reasonable, while probable statements are ones that are likely to be true. In this context, people must often make judgments about the plausibility or probability of different statements or claims.
For example, let’s say a friend tells you that they saw a UFO last night. If you find your friend to be generally trustworthy, you might say that it is plausible that they saw something unusual in the sky. However, if you are a skeptic and require more evidence before believing something, you might say that it is not probable that they saw an actual UFO.
Overall, the choice between plausible and probable can depend on a variety of factors, including the context in which they are used. By understanding the differences between these terms and how they can be applied in different situations, we can make more informed judgments and decisions.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using plausible and probable are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions to these rules that are worth noting. In certain situations, the use of these words may not follow the typical guidelines.
Exception 1: Scientific Research
In scientific research, plausible and probable can have slightly different meanings than in everyday language. In this context, plausible may refer to a hypothesis or theory that has not yet been proven, but has some evidence to support it. Probable, on the other hand, may refer to a hypothesis or theory that has a higher degree of certainty and has been supported by multiple lines of evidence.
For example, a scientist may say that it is plausible that a certain medication could treat a particular disease, based on some preliminary studies. However, they would not say that it is probable until more extensive research has been conducted and the results have been replicated.
Exception 2: Legal Proceedings
In legal proceedings, plausible and probable may also have slightly different meanings than in everyday language. In this context, plausible may refer to an argument or explanation that is reasonable and could be true, based on the available evidence. Probable, on the other hand, may refer to evidence that is more likely than not to be true.
For example, a defense attorney may argue that it is plausible that their client did not commit the crime they are accused of, based on some inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. However, the prosecution may argue that their evidence makes it probable that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Exception 3: Philosophical Discussions
In philosophical discussions, plausible and probable may be used in a more abstract sense than in everyday language. In this context, plausible may refer to an argument or idea that is logically consistent and makes sense, even if it cannot be proven. Probable, on the other hand, may refer to an argument or idea that is more likely to be true than false.
For example, a philosopher may argue that it is plausible that free will exists, even though it cannot be proven empirically. However, they may also argue that it is not probable, since there is no conclusive evidence to support this idea.
Overall, while the rules for using plausible and probable are generally straightforward, it is important to be aware of these exceptions in specific contexts. By understanding these nuances, we can use these words more accurately and effectively in our communication.
Practice Exercises
To improve your understanding and usage of plausible and probable, here are some practice exercises:
Exercise 1: Plausible Or Probable?
Decide whether the following sentences use plausible or probable correctly:
| Sentence | Answer |
|---|---|
| It is ______ that the sun will rise tomorrow. | Probable |
| The explanation he gave seemed ______. | Plausible |
| It is ______ that aliens exist. | Plausible |
| The police have a ______ motive for the crime. | Probable |
| The story she told was ______. | Plausible |
| It is ______ that she will win the lottery. | Probable |
Exercise 2: Plausible Or Not?
Decide whether the following sentences use plausible correctly:
- The idea that the earth is flat is ______.
- His explanation for why he was late seemed ______.
- The theory of evolution is ______.
- The story about the Loch Ness Monster is ______.
- The idea that the moon landing was faked is ______.
Answers:
- Not
- Plausible
- Plausible
- Plausible
- Not
Explanation:
The idea that the earth is flat has been scientifically disproven, so it is not plausible. His explanation for why he was late could be true, so it is plausible. The theory of evolution is supported by scientific evidence, so it is plausible. The story about the Loch Ness Monster is a myth, so it is plausible. The idea that the moon landing was faked has been debunked, so it is not plausible.
Conclusion
After exploring the concepts of plausible and probable, it is clear that these terms hold significant significance in the realm of grammar and language use. Plausible refers to something that is believable or possible, while probable refers to something that is likely to happen or be true.
It is important to understand the distinction between these terms in order to effectively communicate ideas and thoughts. By using the appropriate term, one can convey a more accurate message to their audience.
Furthermore, the use of plausible and probable can also impact the credibility of a statement. By using the wrong term, one can unintentionally mislead their audience or create confusion.
Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to continue learning about grammar and language use in order to effectively communicate and accurately convey their message.
Key Takeaways:
- Plausible refers to something that is believable or possible
- Probable refers to something that is likely to happen or be true
- Understanding the distinction between these terms can improve communication
- Using the wrong term can unintentionally mislead or create confusion
- Continuing to learn about grammar and language use is crucial for effective communication
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.