Quick answer: Probable means likely to happen or likely to be true. It describes an expectation, not a guarantee. In a sentence, it often appears before a noun, as in a probable outcome, or in the pattern It is probable that ….
What does “probable” mean?
Probable is an adjective used when available reasons or evidence make an event seem likely. It is stronger than merely possible in many everyday contexts, but it does not mean certain. The word alone also does not assign a precise percentage; use a number only when a forecast, study, or explicit model provides one.
For example, “A delay is possible” says a delay could happen. “A delay is probable” presents it as the more expected outcome. “A delay is certain” makes a much stronger claim. These distinctions are approximate in ordinary conversation, so choose the word that matches the evidence and avoid implying more confidence than you have.
Probable in example sentences
- It is probable that the meeting will end before noon.
- The most probable explanation is a scheduling error.
- Clouds make rain probable, though the afternoon is not certain to be wet.
- After comparing the records, the team chose the probable source of the discrepancy.
- A probable outcome is still an expectation, not a promise.
- It seems probable that the package will arrive tomorrow.
- Several causes were considered, but none was judged more probable than the others.
- The report describes a probable trend rather than a confirmed result.
These are original examples. They use probable to express a judgment about likelihood, not to report a measured probability.
How to use “probable” in a sentence
A common construction is It is probable that + clause: “It is probable that the roads will be busy.” You can also put the adjective before a noun: “the probable cause,” “a probable result,” or “the most probable explanation.” In many everyday sentences, likely sounds more conversational: “The roads are likely to be busy.”
Probably is the related adverb: “The roads will probably be busy.” Probability is the noun: “There is a high probability of delays.” Do not use the adjective and adverb interchangeably; the grammar of the sentence determines which form fits.
Probable, possible, likely, and certain
| Word | Typical sense | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Possible | Can happen or be true; this does not by itself say how likely it is. | “A later train is possible.” |
| Probable | Expected or judged likely, but not assured. | “A later train is probable.” |
| Likely | Usually means expected to happen; often the more conversational choice. | “A later train is likely.” |
| Certain | Describes something treated as sure, with no meaningful doubt in the stated context. | “The train is certain to stop here.” |
The exact strength of these words depends on context and speaker judgment. In technical writing, state the underlying evidence or give a calibrated estimate when one is available instead of treating an everyday adjective as a numerical threshold.
Frequently asked questions
Does “probable” mean certain?
No. Probable means likely or expected, while certain says the outcome is treated as sure. A probable event may not happen.
What is the difference between possible and probable?
Possible means an event can happen. Probable presents it as more likely or expected. Neither word supplies a precise percentage by itself.
Should I write “It is probable that” or “It is probable to”?
It is probable that + clause is a clear, standard pattern: “It is probable that the event will be postponed.” For an infinitive, likely to is usually more natural in ordinary English: “The event is likely to be postponed.” Check a current dictionary or style guide for the context-specific construction.
What are the related forms of “probable”?
Probably is the adverb, as in “They will probably call.” Probability is the noun, as in “The probability is low.”
Sources and further reading
Check a current dictionary entry for probable or probable for its meaning, pronunciation, and example usage. The sentence patterns above are original examples; choose the pattern that clearly communicates your intended likelihood.
Quick practice with word forms
Complete “It is ___ that the train will arrive soon” and “The train will ___ arrive soon.” Probable fits the first gap, while probably fits the second. Now write “There is a high ___ of a delay.” Probability supplies the noun. These forms share a meaning family but perform different grammatical jobs.
For a final check, ask what supports your judgment. “The most probable explanation is a missing label” is clearer when the next sentence identifies the evidence, such as matching records elsewhere in the file. In everyday writing, you can express uncertainty precisely without inventing a percentage. State the reason, choose the suitable word, and leave room for the possibility that the conclusion changes.
Have you ever wondered about the likelihood of something happening? The word “probable” is frequently used to describe the chance or likelihood that an event will occur.
In everyday language, “probable” is often associated with something that is likely to happen, but not guaranteed. It indicates a higher likelihood compared to possibilities that are less likely, but not definite.
7 Examples Of Probable Used In a Sentence For Kids
- The probable winner of the race is the fastest runner.
- It is probable that it will rain today.
- The probable answer to 2+2 is 4.
- The probable color of the sky is blue.
- It is probable that we will have a picnic tomorrow.
- The probable animal in the jungle is a tiger.
- The probable outcome of the game is a tie.
14 Sentences with Probable Examples
- Probable scenario: The probable date for the final exam is next week.
- The probable outcome of pulling an all-nighter is exhaustion the next day.
- It is probable that the library will be packed during exam season.
- Probable solution: Forming a study group can help with understanding complex subjects.
- The probable consequence of missing classes regularly is a drop in grades.
- It is probable that the canteen will run out of snacks during lunch break.
- Probable source: The internet is a probable source of research material for your project.
- The probable effect of procrastination is submitting assignments late.
- It is probable that the college bookstore will have the textbooks you need for this semester.
- Probable suggestion: Start preparing for exams well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- The probable result of not paying attention in class is not understanding the topic during exams.
- It is probable that there will be a long queue at the photocopy center before exams.
- Probable tip: Utilize study breaks effectively to avoid burnout.
- The probable consequence of not managing your time efficiently is falling behind in coursework.
How To Use Probable in Sentences?
To use Probable in a sentence, you first need to understand its meaning. Probable is an adjective that describes something that is likely to happen or be true, but not certain.
Here is a simple guide to help you use Probable correctly in a sentence:
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Identify the context: Think about a situation where there is a chance of something happening or being true, but it is not definite.
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Choose the subject: Determine what or who you are referring to in the sentence.
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Use Probable appropriately: Place Probable before a noun to indicate the likelihood of that noun happening or being true. For example, “It is probable that it will rain tomorrow.”
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Provide supporting information: You can add more details to strengthen the sentence and make the likelihood clearer. For instance, “Based on the dark clouds, it is probable that it will rain soon.”
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Practice using Probable in different contexts: Experiment with using Probable in various sentences to become more comfortable with its usage.
By following these simple steps and practicing, you can effectively incorporate Probable into your sentences to convey the likelihood of events or situations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sentences containing the word “probable” often express likelihood or the likelihood of an event occurring. These sentences indicate that something is likely to happen based on available information, making them useful for making predictions or assumptions. By using “probable” in a sentence, one can convey a level of certainty or likelihood without definitively stating that something will happen.
Overall, sentences with “probable” serve to provide insights into what is likely to occur in a given situation or context. They offer a way to express the likelihood of an outcome without being overly definitive, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the uncertainties and possibilities present in various scenarios.
