Meaning & Definition of word "Probable"

Probable

/ˈprɒb.ə.bəl/

adjective:

  • 1. Likely to happen or be true; highly likely.
    • Example: It is probable that the meeting will be rescheduled due to the weather conditions.
  • 2. Having a high chance of being the case.
    • Example: The probable cause of the accident was driver error.
  • 3. Supported by evidence to a reasonable degree.
    • Example: The detective found probable evidence linking the suspect to the crime.
  • 4. Referring to something that appears likely but is not certain.
    • Example: She had a probable explanation for his sudden disappearance.

Etymology

From Latin 'probabilis', which means 'provable' or 'likely'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

it's probable:

It's likely to happen.

a probable cause:

An assumed or likely cause of something.

probable outcome:

The expected result based on current evidence.

Related Words

probability:

The extent to which something is probable.

probabilistic:

Involving or based on probability.

Slang Meanings of probable

Meaning: Prob

Example Sentence: The game's outcome is a prob.

Meaning: Probable cause

Example Sentence: If you're not sure, just consider it a probable cause.