概率
gài lǜ · HSK 7
probability (math.)
🎲 概 (general/approximate) + 率 (rate) = approximate rate = probability
概 carries the sense of general/approximate, while 率 means rate or ratio. Together they form the mathematical idea of an approximate rate of occurrence — probability.
率 — twisted silk threads with droplets, plus 十
率 originally pictured a net or twisted bundle of silk cords with water droplets shaking off, suggesting something being led or pulled along. From 'leading a rope' it extended to 'lead, command' (shuài) and to 'rate, ratio' (lǜ), as in a fixed proportion. The two readings share this core image of a guiding measure.