Inklingo

How to Say "probability" in Spanish

English → Spanish

probabilidad

/pro-bah-bee-lee-DAHD//pɾoβaβiliˈðad/

nounB1general
Use 'probabilidad' when referring to the statistical or formal measure of how likely an event is to occur, often in more formal or technical contexts.
A hand tossing a shiny gold coin into the air to illustrate the concept of chance and likelihood.

Examples

La probabilidad de que gane la lotería es muy baja.

The probability of winning the lottery is very low.

Hay una alta probabilidad de lluvia esta tarde.

There is a high probability of rain this afternoon.

No veo ninguna probabilidad de éxito en este plan.

I don't see any chance of success in this plan.

Existe la probabilidad de que el examen sea difícil.

There is a likelihood that the exam will be difficult.

Always Feminine

Spanish nouns ending in -dad are almost always feminine. Use 'la' or 'una' with this word.

Using 'que'

When you follow this word with 'de que' and a verb, the second verb usually changes its form to show uncertainty (this is the 'subjunctive' form), like in: 'la probabilidad de que venga' (the probability that he comes).

Gender Error

Mistake: “el probabilidad”

Correction: la probabilidad (because nouns ending in -dad are feminine).

chance

chahn-seh/ˈtʃanse/

nounB1informal
Use 'chance' when talking about a possibility or opportunity, often in informal conversation, similar to 'opportunity' or 'likelihood' in English.
A simple drawing of a hand gently tossing a single, blank white cube (a die) into the air, illustrating the uncertainty and likelihood of an event's outcome.

Examples

No pierdas el chance de estudiar en el extranjero.

Don't miss the chance to study abroad.

No hay chance de que el tren llegue a tiempo con esta nevada.

There is no possibility that the train will arrive on time with this snowfall.

¿Qué chance tenemos de que nos den el trabajo?

What probability do we have of getting the job?

Using 'No hay chance'

This fixed phrase is extremely common and means 'There is no way' or 'It’s impossible.' It is often followed by 'de que' and the special form of the verb used for wishes and doubts (the subjunctive).

Confusing Formal vs. Informal Likelihood

Learners often mistakenly use 'chance' in formal situations where 'probabilidad' is expected, or vice-versa. Remember that 'probabilidad' is the standard, more formal term for statistical likelihood, while 'chance' is more colloquial and can sometimes imply opportunity.

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