Cool MatePerhaps vs Probably
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Perhaps
Top 1,000 (very common)A2adverb
Probably
Top 1,000 (very common)A1adverb
| Perhaps | Probably | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/pəˈhæps//præps/"]/🇺🇸 /["/pərˈhæps/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈprɒbəbli/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈprɑːbəbli/"]/ |
| Meaning | maybe; it might be true | most likely; it seems that something will happen |
| Example | ‘Are you going to come?’ ‘Perhaps. I'll see how I feel.’ | You're **probably right**. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | A2 | A1 |
| Part of speech | adverb | adverb |
| Collocations | perhaps we should, perhaps it is, perhaps he thought | probably going to, probably not, probably true |
| Antonyms | definitely, certainly | unlikely, improbable |
| Common mistakes | 'Perhaps' can't be used as a noun., Confused with 'perchance', which is more archaic., Using 'perhaps' in very direct or commanding statements. | Using 'probably' with negative verbs incorrectly, 'Probably' used too frequently can sound unsure, Confusing 'probably' with 'probably not' |
| Usage notes | Use 'perhaps' in formal writing or speech. It's less common in casual conversations, where 'maybe' is preferred. Avoid using it when being certain. | 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: Perhaps vs Probably
What's the difference between Perhaps and Probably?
Perhaps: maybe; it might be true Probably: most likely; it seems that something will happen
Which is more advanced: Perhaps and Probably?
Perhaps is the highest level, at A2, on the CEFR scale.
Are Perhaps and Probably the same CEFR level?
Perhaps: A2, Probably: A1 on the CEFR scale.
What part of speech are Perhaps and Probably?
Perhaps: adverb, Probably: adverb.
Can you show an example of each?
Perhaps: ‘Are you going to come?’ ‘Perhaps. I'll see how I feel.’ Probably: You're **probably right**.
Can I use Perhaps and Probably interchangeably?
Not always. Perhaps 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.