English Reference
Adverb

probably

adv. sent.
A1 Beginner Oxford US /ˈpɹɑbəˌbɫi/ UK /pɹˈɒbəbli/ prob·a·bly

adv.used to say that something is very likely to happen or be true. You use it when you are almost certain but not one hundred percent sure.

adv.used to indicate a high degree of likelihood or probability. Functions as a modal adverb to qualify the certainty of a statement.


SIMPLE

I will probably stay home tonight.

CONTEXTUAL

If the weather stays this clear, we will probably reach the mountain summit by noon.

COMPLEX

The researchers concluded that the unusual data points were probably caused by a minor calibration error in the sensor rather than a new physical phenomenon.

Usage

Typically placed before the main verb but after the first auxiliary verb or the verb 'to be'.

Pitfall
Probably I will go.I will probably go.

In neutral English, this adverb usually sits in the mid-position (before the verb) rather than at the start of the sentence.

Usage probably one · probably wouldn't · probably won't


From Middle English probably, probabily, equivalent to probable + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English probably
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated