B2adjective 2K

Probable

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈprɒbəbl/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈprɑːbəbl/"]/

Meaning of Probable

likely to happen, to exist or to be true

In simple words: likely to happen or be true

Probable in a sentence

• the probable cause/explanation/outcome
• **highly/quite/most probable**
• **It is probable that** the disease has a genetic element.
• The two outcomes are equally probable.
• The probable cause of the fire was an electrical fault.
• It is quite probable that they will call an election next spring.

How to use Probable

Used to indicate a strong likelihood of something occurring. Common in both spoken and written English. Avoid in very informal contexts where simpler words may suffice.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'probable' as 'probably able' to happen.

Related words

Collocations with Probable

• be
• look
• seem
• highly
• very
• increasingly

Synonyms for Probable

• likely
• feasible
• possible
• expected
• foreseeable

Opposites of Probable

• improbable
• unlikely

Common mistakes with Probable

• Confused with 'probably' which indicates uncertainty.
• Used with incorrect verb forms, e.g., 'probable that it rains' instead of 'probable it will rain'.

Frequently asked questions about Probable

What does Probable mean?

likely to happen or be true

What is the definition of Probable?

likely to happen, to exist or to be true

How do you use Probable in a sentence?

the probable cause/explanation/outcome

Can you give another example of Probable?

**highly/quite/most probable**

What are synonyms for Probable?

Common alternatives include likely, feasible, possible, expected, foreseeable.

What is the opposite of Probable?

Opposite meanings include improbable, unlikely.

What words go with Probable?

It commonly pairs with be, look, seem, highly, very, increasingly.

What are common mistakes when using Probable?

Confused with 'probably' which indicates uncertainty. Used with incorrect verb forms, e.g., 'probable that it rains' instead of 'probable it will rain'.

How do you pronounce Probable?

US: /["/ˈprɑːbəbl/"]/, UK: /["/ˈprɒbəbl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Probable?

Used to indicate a strong likelihood of something occurring. Common in both spoken and written English. Avoid in very informal contexts where simpler words may suffice.

What CEFR level is Probable?

"Probable" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.