Cool MateApparently vs Probably
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Apparently
Top 1,000 (very common)B2adverb
Probably
Top 1,000 (very common)A1adverb
| Apparently | Probably | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/əˈpærəntli/"]/🇺🇸 /["/əˈpærəntli/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈprɒbəbli/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈprɑːbəbli/"]/ |
| Meaning | It seems that something is true based on what I've heard. | most likely; it seems that something will happen |
| Example | Apparently they are getting divorced soon. | You're **probably right**. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | B2 | A1 |
| Part of speech | adverb | adverb |
| Collocations | apparently true, apparently unaware, apparently easy | probably going to, probably not, probably true |
| Antonyms | unquestionably, certainly | unlikely, improbable |
| Common mistakes | Using it too formally in casual conversations., Confusing it with 'obviously', which implies certainty., Not using it to introduce a statement clearly. | Using 'probably' with negative verbs incorrectly, 'Probably' used too frequently can sound unsure, Confusing 'probably' with 'probably not' |
| Usage notes | Used when stating something as though it is true, often based on hearsay or indirect information. Generally appropriate in both spoken and written English, but can sound less confident than stating a fact directly. | Use 'probably' when you want to indicate that something is likely true or will happen. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English, but avoid in very formal contexts where more certain language is expected. |
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Frequently asked questions: Apparently vs Probably
What's the difference between Apparently and Probably?
Apparently: It seems that something is true based on what I've heard. Probably: most likely; it seems that something will happen
Are Apparently and Probably the same CEFR level?
Apparently: B2, Probably: A1 on the CEFR scale.
Can I use Apparently and Probably interchangeably?
Not always. Apparently and Probably are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.