probably

American  

[prob-uh-blee] / ˈprɒb ə bli /

adverb

1. in all likelihood; very likely.

   He will probably attend.

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probably British  

/ ˈprɒbəblɪ /

adverb

1. (sentence modifier; not used with a negative or in a question) in all likelihood or probability

   I'll probably see you tomorrow

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1. I believe such a thing or situation may be the case

Usage

What does probably mean? Probably means most likely or in all likelihood.Probably is the adverb form of the adjective probable, meaning “very likely to occur or be true.” Probably is used when you think something will happen or turn out to be true, but you’re not certain enough to say it definitely will.Example: My flight will probably arrive within the next few hours, but I can’t guarantee it.

Etymology

Origin of probably

First recorded in 1525–35; probable + -ly

Example Sentences

“We’re building data centers everywhere. And that’s actually putting pressure on all kinds of goods and services that go into building these things. So that’s actually probably pushing inflation up at the margin,” he said.

From Barron's

“We’re building data centers everywhere. And that’s actually putting pressure on all kinds of goods and services that go into building these things. So that’s actually probably pushing inflation up at the margin,” he said.

From Barron's

“It would certainly catch me by surprise and feel a little reckless. And I think I’d probably be the last person people would be worried about,” Cooke said.

From Los Angeles Times

Polaris veterans probably don’t get excited about it, but this newbie enjoyed the ice-cream sundae cart wheeled to each seat.

From The Wall Street Journal

But the Aston Villa player, who has shone as a number 10 during qualifying, will probably not be playing in that position when England kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17.

From BBC

Related Words

• apparently
• doubtless
• no doubt
• perhaps
• possibly
• presumably
• seemingly