Probability

as 'ability to prove'

Morphological analysis

• Etymon: The word probability derives from Latin probabilitās meaning 'ability to prove'.

• Morpheme breakdown: the prefix probābilis: 'proveable' => 'ability to prove'.

Essential definition

The word probability originates from the Latin probabilitās, meaning 'credibility' or 'likelihood', itself derived from probābilis ('provable' or 'credible'), which comes from the verb probāre ('to test, approve, or prove'). Thus, its core etymological meaning is 'the quality of being provable or worthy of approval'.

Semantic context

• Conventional sense: The word probability primarily refers to a measure of the likelihood that a particular event will occur, expressed as a number between 0 and 1 (or 0% and 100%). (Note: Semantic drift from essential meaning)
• Essential meaning (my usage): 'ability to prove'

Philosophical significance

The philosophical significance lies in reframing probability as a logical and evidential capacity rather than a mere measure of chance. This perspective grounds probabilistic reasoning in the pursuit of justification and truth, connecting it directly to epistemology and the philosophy of science. It suggests that to assign a probability is to engage in an act of demonstration based on available evidence.

Usage in this lexicon

When I use the word probability in my work, I mean exactly 'ability to prove'. This definition:

• emphasizes the empirical and verifiable nature of probability, linking it to evidence and demonstration;
• encourages a focus on justification and reasoning behind probabilistic assessments, rather than mere numerical expression;
• aligns the concept of probability with logical inference and the process of establishing truth;
• provides a clear, action-oriented interpretation by framing probability as a capacity or potential to establish something;
• creates a direct conceptual link between probability and the fundamental scientific goal of proof and confirmation;
• offers a linguistic and philosophical clarity by rooting the term's meaning in its original, constituent parts;
• distinguishes probability from mere chance or opinion by anchoring it in the concept of provability; and
• facilitates a clearer understanding of its antonym (improbability) as denoting a lack of capacity for proof.

Sources

• Wiktionary

*This definition follows morphological essentialism principles. See the Methodology for details.