Synonyms for

Improbable

Verb / ˌɪˈmprɑ:bʌbʌl / Another word for improbable — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not likely to happen or be true

Synonyms & similar words

marvelous marvellous probable unconvincing tall unlikely unbelievable unlikely doubtful uncertain implausible unbelievable incredible questionable dubious far-fetched unimaginable impossible remote fanciful fantastic unrealistic unreasonable inconceivable outlandish preposterous absurd

Synonyms by register

Formal

unlikely doubtful questionable far-fetched

Informal

long shot a million to one hard to believe no way

Literary

chimerical fantastical apocryphal

Antonyms

likely probable plausible credible believable possible conceivable

Common collocations

  • highly improbable
  • improbable event
  • improbable outcome
  • improbable scenario
  • improbable cause
  • improbable success
  • improbable but true

Word family

noun improbability
adjective improbable
adverb improbably

Usage note

While 'improbable' means unlikely, it is often used to describe something that is so unlikely as to be almost impossible. It is generally considered a neutral term.

Example sentences

  1. It is improbable that I will grow wings and fly.
  2. It is improbable that it will rain candy.
  3. It is improbable that I will turn into a superhero.
  4. It is improbable that I will travel to the moon without a spaceship.
  5. It is improbable that my dog will learn to talk.

Quotes

  • 'The improbable we do immediately. The impossible takes a little longer.' - David Ben-Gurion
  • 'In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can.' - Nikos Kazantzakis
  • 'It always seems impossible until it's done.' - Nelson Mandela

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