Showing Probability
Common Phrases to Show Probability
There are many ways to show how certain you are about an opinion. These are some of the most common:
100% (Certain)
I'm sure that...
There's no doubt that...
Example:
I'm positive that the interest rate on that loan is negotiable.
I'm sure that the Uniform Commercial Code states that a wallet left on a bank counter is not lost; it's legally only mislaid.
75% (Probable)
This is likely to...
I expect that...
I wouldn't be surprised if...
Example:
I expect that I will use my overdraft protection liberally as prices go up and my salary goes down.
I wouldn't be surprised if they form a limited liability company next year.
50% (Possible)
There's a chance that...
It's possible that...
Maybe...
Example:
I think bank lending rates will go down enough so that I can purchase that house
It is possible that Acme Motors will get an endorsement from the new music star.
25% (Unlikely)
This probably isn't ...
I don't think that...
We are unlikely to...
I doubt that...
Example:
I doubt that our company will be interested in working with you based on your credit application.
I doubt that we can process this credit application before 5:00 pm.