probably

[prob-uh-blee]

adverb

1. in all likelihood; very likely.

   He will probably attend.

probably

/ 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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of probably¹

First recorded in 1525–35; probable + -ly

Example Sentences

“He’s very sad about what happened ... He ended up with a lot of superficial injuries and I think she probably did too,” Dugan said.

From Los Angeles Times

The planned community is probably Orange County’s chief cultural contribution, notwithstanding regulations that govern decisions like the color you can paint your house.

From Los Angeles Times

“That was probably the best first dance I’ve ever seen on this show.”

From Los Angeles Times

“If we had these resources when I was younger, my trajectory could have probably been a little bit different,” Espino said.

From Los Angeles Times

"What we're realising from this work is that our relationship with alcohol goes deep back into evolutionary time, probably about 30 million years," she told BBC News.

From BBC

Related Words

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

When To Use

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.