1.
probability; likelihood; chance of something occurring
The degree to which something is likely to happen. A formal and somewhat literary term used in academic, legal, and philosophical contexts. In everyday speech, 可能性 is more commonly used.
その蓋然性は高い。
The probability of that is high.
犯罪が行われた蓋然性が認められる。
The likelihood that a crime was committed is recognized.
蓋然性の高い仮説から順に検証していくべきだ。
We should verify hypotheses in order of probability, starting with the most likely.
USAGE:
A formal term encountered primarily in legal documents, academic writing, and philosophical discussion. In everyday conversation, 可能性 (possibility) is far more common. 蓋然性 implies a more measured assessment of likelihood.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 蓋然性が高い/低い (probability is high/low)
- 蓋然性を認める (to recognize the likelihood)
- 高度の蓋然性 (high degree of probability — legal term)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 可能性: possibility — more general and common
- 確率: probability — more mathematical/statistical