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probable
/ˈprɒbəbəl/
likely to happen or be true
It is probable that the meeting will be postponed due to bad weather.
This means it is very likely that the meeting will be delayed because of the weather.
formalinformal
Likely to happen or be true based on available evidence or reasoning.
The weather forecast indicates that rain is probable tomorrow.
The forecast suggests that rain is very likely to occur tomorrow.
His success is probable given his hard work and dedication.
His success is very likely because of his hard work and dedication.
Often used in contexts where certainty is not absolute but likelihood is high.
Collocations
highly probablevery likely to happenmost probablethe most likely outcome
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Probable vs. Likely
'Probable' suggests a higher degree of certainty than 'likely'. Use 'probable' when the evidence strongly supports the outcome.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'probable', from Latin 'probabilis', meaning 'worthy of approval, probable', from 'probare' (to prove).
Usage Notes
Often used in formal contexts such as scientific reports, legal documents, and forecasts. Can also be used in everyday language to express likelihood.
Word Breakdown
prob
to prove or test
root-able
capable of
suffixEnglish Dictionary