adj
probable
PRO-buhbl
adj
1
Likely to be true or to happen, based on the evidence available.
"It's probable that the flight will be delayed given the storm."
"The most probable explanation is that he simply forgot."
How to Use Probable
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMore likely than not, based on the evidence.
Common mistake
"Probable" is stronger than "possible" — possible just means it could happen, while probable means it likely will.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
most probable
highly probable
Word Forms
more probable comparative, probables plural, most probable superlative
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “probable”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
It's _____ that the flight will be delayed given the storm.
Etymology
From Latin probabilis, "provable" or "credible," from probare, "to test or prove" — the same root behind "probe" and "prove."