Word
probability function
Definition
compound. a mathematical rule that tells you how likely different results are in an experiment or event.
compound. a mathematical function that provides the probabilities of occurrence of different possible outcomes in an experiment. It is a technical term used in statistics and probability theory to describe the distribution of a random variable.
Examples
“We use a probability function to predict the dice roll.”
“The researcher calculated the probability function to determine the likelihood of the drug working for different age groups.”
“In quantum mechanics, the wave function acts as a probability function that describes the likelihood of finding a particle in a specific region of space.”
Examples
simple
“We use a probability function to predict the dice roll.”
contextual
“The researcher calculated the probability function to determine the likelihood of the drug working for different age groups.”
complex
“In quantum mechanics, the wave function acts as a probability function that describes the likelihood of finding a particle in a specific region of space.”
Usage
primarily used in mathematics, statistics, and data science contexts.
Teaching tip
contrast this with 'probability' as a general concept; the 'function' part implies a systematic mapping of all possible outcomes rather than a single chance.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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