What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stochastic
Example
The stock market is a stochastic system that can be difficult to predict. [stochastic: adjective]
Example
The roulette wheel is a classic example of a stochastic process. [stochastic: noun]
probabilistic
Example
Weather forecasting is a probabilistic science that relies on statistical models. [probabilistic: adjective]
Example
The outcome of a coin toss is a probabilistic event with a 50-50 chance of heads or tails. [probabilistic: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Probabilistic is more commonly used than stochastic in everyday language. Probabilistic is a more general term that can be used in a variety of contexts, while stochastic is more specific and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stochastic and probabilistic?
Both stochastic and probabilistic are formal words that are typically used in technical or scientific contexts. However, probabilistic is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while stochastic is more specific and may be less common in everyday language.
