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

It’s like that old thing that when someone gets under your skin, it’s probably something about them that you don’t have access to in yourself that is challenging.

From The Wall Street Journal

His comments cemented the impression that he’s probably never said more than three words to a half-sibling born two wives after his own mother.

From Salon

"Did I ever think we would get the win and through to the next round? No, I probably didn't," Rooney told BBC Breakfast.

From BBC

The scripted banter mostly made one think how much funnier the presenters probably were waiting to come onstage, and after they got back to their tables.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's just really nice to see that everybody there is just giving her time to talk and they're doing the right things, probably without even knowing that they're are."

From BBC

Related Words

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