Plausible vs. Probable — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 3, 2024
Plausible refers to something that seems reasonable or believable, while probable indicates a higher likelihood of being true or occurring.
Difference Between Plausible and Probable
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Plausible means something appears credible or convincing based on the available evidence, suggesting it could be true. On the other hand, probable goes a step further by implying there is a greater likelihood, based on evidence, that something is true or will happen.
Plausibility is about the appearance of truth and does not necessarily imply a high likelihood. Whereas, probability is often quantified and used in statistics to measure the chances of occurrence.
A theory being plausible means it could be true if further evidence supports it, whereas a probable theory is already supported by the majority of evidence and is likely true.
In everyday language, plausible is often used to describe theories, excuses, or ideas that are within the realm of reason. On the other hand, probable is more commonly used in discussions about outcomes and events where likelihood can be assessed.
Legal and scientific contexts differentiate sharply between these terms: a plausible scenario needs only to be acceptable, while a probable scenario must be supported by data indicating it is more likely than not.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Seemingly reasonable or believable
Likely to be true or to happen
Usage in Language
Qualitative, less about likelihood
Quantitative, often involves estimation
Common Contexts
Theories, ideas, explanations
Outcomes, events, predictions
Requirement of Evidence
Minimal, just needs to not contradict facts
Substantial, requires supporting data
Implication of Truth
Possible but not confirmed
Likely and often expected
Compare with Definitions
Plausible
Reasonably inferred from available information.
Her theory is plausible given the known facts.
Probable
Having more evidence for than against, likely.
Given her track record, her success in this project is probable.
Plausible
Suggesting a reasonable chance of being valid.
It’s plausible that he didn’t know about the decision.
Probable
Quantifiably likely, statistically supported.
Statistically, it is probable that we will reach our sales target.
Plausible
Superficially fair, persuasive, or acceptable.
The plot of the movie is plausible, but it lacks depth.
Probable
Greater likelihood of occurrence.
A probable outcome of this plan is increased customer satisfaction.
Plausible
Appearing worthy of belief.
His excuse for being late was plausible but not entirely convincing.
Probable
Supported by evidence pointing to its truth.
It’s probable that the meeting will be postponed.
Plausible
Possibly true, believable.
The suspect's story was plausible, yet the police were skeptical.
Probable
Likely to occur or prove true.
With dark clouds looming, rain is probable.
Plausible
Seemingly or apparently valid, likely, or acceptable; credible
A plausible excuse.
Probable
Likely to happen or to be true
War seemed probable in 1938. The home team, far ahead, is the probable winner.
Plausible
Persuasive or ingratiating, especially in an effort to deceive.
Probable
Likely but uncertain; plausible.
Plausible
Seemingly or apparently valid, likely, or acceptable; conceivably true or likely.
A plausible excuse
Probable
(Theology) Of or relating to opinions and actions in ethics and morals for whose lawfulness intrinsic reasons or extrinsic authority may be adduced.
Plausible
Obtaining approbation; specifically pleasing; apparently right; specious.
A plausible pretext; plausible manners; a plausible delusion
Probable
Likely or most likely to be true.
It's probable that it will rain tomorrow.
The probable source of the failure was the mass of feathers in the intake manifold.
Plausible
(obsolete) Worthy of being applauded; praiseworthy; commendable; ready.
Probable
Likely to happen.
With all the support we have, success is looking probable.
Plausible
Worthy of being applauded; praiseworthy; commendable; ready.
Probable
Supporting, or giving ground for, belief, but not demonstrating.
Plausible
Obtaining approbation; specifically pleasing; apparently right; specious; as, a plausible pretext; plausible manners; a plausible delusion.
Probable
(obsolete) Capable of being proved.
Plausible
Using specious arguments or discourse; as, a plausible speaker.
Probable
Something that is likely.
Plausible
Apparently reasonable and valid
Probable
A person who is likely to appear or do a certain thing.
Plausible
Likely but not certain to be or become true or real;
A likely result
He foresaw a probable loss
Probable
Capable of being proved.
Plausible
Within the realm of credibility;
Not a very likely excuse
A plausible story
Probable
Having more evidence for than against; supported by evidence which inclines the mind to believe, but leaves some room for doubt; likely.
That is accounted probable which has better arguments producible for it than can be brought against it.
I do not say that the principles of religion are merely probable; I have before asserted them to be morally certain.
Plausible
Appearing to merit belief or acceptance;
A credible witness
A plausible story
Probable
Rendering probable; supporting, or giving ground for, belief, but not demonstrating; as, probable evidence; probable presumption.
Probable
An applicant likely to be chosen
Probable
Likely but not certain to be or become true or real;
A likely result
He foresaw a probable loss
Probable
Apparently destined;
The probable consequences of going ahead with the scheme
Common Curiosities
Can something be plausible but not probable?
Yes, an idea can seem reasonable (plausible) without having a high likelihood (probable) of being true.
What is an example of a plausible scenario?
A plausible scenario is someone claiming traffic delayed them if known construction is happening.
What is an example of a probable scenario?
A probable scenario is predicting rain when there are dark clouds and a high humidity index.
Why is it important to distinguish between plausible and probable?
Distinguishing helps in evaluating the likelihood and credibility of situations for better judgment and expectations.
Can a theory be both plausible and probable?
Yes, a theory can be both if it appears reasonable and is supported by a significant amount of evidence.
What does a plausible denial involve?
A plausible denial involves denying knowledge of an event in a way that seems reasonable under the circumstances.
How is probability calculated?
Probability is calculated by assessing the ratio of favorable outcomes to the total number of possible outcomes.
How do courts use the concept of probable?
Courts use the concept of probable in determining the likelihood of facts being as claimed, often requiring more concrete evidence.
Is plausibility a subjective judgment?
Yes, plausibility can be somewhat subjective as it depends on an individual's perception of what is reasonable.
What makes a statement plausible?
A statement is plausible if it seems reasonable and doesn’t contradict known facts.
How do plausibility and probability affect decision making?
Decision making often relies on probability for risk assessment but uses plausibility to consider various scenarios.
What role does probability play in statistics?
Probability is foundational in statistics as it helps in making inferences about populations from sample data.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
