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conditional probability

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Definition of conditional probability

: the probability that a given event will occur if it is certain that another event has taken place or will take place

Examples of conditional probability in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Doyle believes the humpback whales have conditional probabilities in their language. — Brian Resnick, Vox, "What humpback whales can teach us about alien languages," 6 Dec. 2018 The conditional probability wasn’t specified in Mr. Suva’s research note. — Justin Lahart, WSJ, "How Do Pundits Never Get It Wrong? Call a 40% Chance," 10 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'conditional probability.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of conditional probability

1937, in the meaning defined above

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The first known use of conditional probability was in 1937

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Cite this Entry

“Conditional probability.” The Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Inc., https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conditional%20probability. Accessed 12 December 2019.

More from Merriam-Webster on conditional probability

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about conditional probability

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