Nine times out of ten

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adverb

Almost always; in most situations or cases.

Nine times out of ten, he forgets to lock the car.
Visual representation of "nine times out of ten" - Almost always; in most situations or cases.

Often appears as...

  • nine times out of ten
  • people

Usage tips

Colloquial, Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "nine times out of ten"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Probability

The phrase suggests something happens 90% of the time but is not a precise statistic.

Illustration for Probability
If you check his blog, nine times out of ten, there's a new post.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Predictability

It indicates a high degree of certainty that an event will occur based on past occurrences.

Illustration for Predictability
Nine times out of ten, she answers the phone on the first ring.
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Casual Tone

The expression is informal, best for casual conversations, not for formal or academic writing.

Illustration for Casual Tone
Nine times out of ten, going by bus is cheaper than taking a taxi.
Visual representation of the word "Nine times out of ten"

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