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

"I think it will be competitive in some way. I think Europeans are going to probably pass the ball out and have fun out there," he said.

From Barron's

That his foot came off quickly probably would have saved him.

From BBC

If I would have got that medal, I probably wouldn't have run sub-10.

From BBC

“Monday morning quarterback. Absolutely. I probably could have held off on that,” Nanos said at a news conference, with top FBI agents flanking him.

From Los Angeles Times

Whether Prince picked his pitch with that in mind is anybody’s guess . . . probably not; doesn’t matter.

From Salon

Related Words

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