Expressing probability or improbability
See the difference between probability and possibility.
There are many ways to say that something will probably or improbably happen.
Probability / improbability
| … | may might can could |
… |
| … will | probably | |
| It’s | probable improbable likely unlikely |
that … |
| I | doubt suppose guess |
… will… |
| ‘d be surprised | if…. |
| Perhaps May be |
… will … |
Examples of probability:
- It is probable that my grandfather repairs my bike.
- May be / perhaps the problem won’t be serious.
- It will probably rain this evening.
- I’m likely to do the work myself.
Examples of improbability:
- No, probably not.
- I don’t suppose my grandfather will repair the bike.
- I doubt my father will buy me a new computer, either.
- She is unlikely to return home early this evening.
- I’d be surprised if he got the best score.
- It’s unlikely he will find his lost keys.
Expressing probability in the past
| … | may might can could |
have | Past Participle |
Examples of probability in the past:
- He may have robbed your computer while you were out.
- The criminal might have threatened That’s why, she was afraid of him.
- The author might have carrieda deep research on the subject. That’s why his book is so interesting.
Examples of improbability in the past:
- He may have not lived in this town. Nobody seems to know him.
- She can’t have helped him in his crime as they have never met before.
