B2adjectiveacademic
US/ˈprɑː.bə.bəl/
UK/ˈprɒb.ə.bəl/
likely to be true or to happen
In context
It is probable that the meeting will be moved to next week.
The probable cause of the fire was an old electrical cable.
Rain is highly probable this afternoon, so take an umbrella.
Words that go with probable
adverb + adjective
- highly probableA delay is highly probable given the strike.
- most probableThe most probable explanation is a software error.
adjective + noun
- probable causePolice need probable cause to search the house.
- probable outcomeThe probable outcome is a small rise in prices.
- probable reasonThe probable reason for the delay is traffic.
- probable explanationThe most probable explanation is a faulty switch.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
It is probably that he will come.Correct: It is probable that he will come.