# probability function

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/probability-function
Updated: 2026-08-05

## Definition

a mathematical rule that tells you how likely different results are in an experiment or event.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.