Probability Vocabulary

Here is a list of vocabulary words for probability.

outcome - what happens as the result of a choice or event, for example, heads on a coin, or 6 on a number cube

desired outcome - the outcome you or the problem wants, for example, heads on a coin, or 6 on a number cube

total outcomes - the entire set of outcomes possible from the choice or event, for example, heads or tails on a coin, 1-6 on a number cube

sample space - another name for total outcomes, which usually holds outcomes for more than one event

event - the action that decides the outcome, for example, flipping a coin, rolling a number cube

probability - the chance the desired outcome has of happening, usually written in the theoretical by a ratio of desired outcomes to total outcomes

independent event - an event that is not changed by another event, such as flipping a coin or rolling a number cube

dependent event - an event that is changed by another event, such as having to reroll a number cube if you get a 1, or drawing from a bag of marbles after one has been taken out.  Dependent events typically have different total outcomes than independent events.

multiple independent events - when an event happens more than once, we multiply its probability.  So rolling a number cube, then rolling again, will have a 1/36 chance of getting 6 and another 6.

complement - outcomes other than a desired or specific outcome.  Anytime the word NOT is used, look for that outcome's complement.

experiment - causing an event to check the outcome.  Sometimes this is done to test the validity of the ratio for deviation (such as loaded dice).

percent chance - writing the ratio as a percent.

spinner - a probability device, usually a circle that has been divided into different colors or regions, with a needle attached that, when flicked, spins around the circle until it points to a region.  If the needle points to a dividing line, it is typically flicked again.

number cube - a cube with its faces labeled 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.  It is hidden from view, shufffled in the hand and then tossed onto the table.