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Probable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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probable

[หˆprษ’bษ™bษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

likelihood

Likely to happen or be true; seeming to be true

Synonyms

feasible, likely, possible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
probable

Use this word when something has a high chance of happening based on evidence or logic.

  • It's probable that it will rain tomorrow given the current weather forecast.
  • Given his skills, it's probable that he will get the promotion.
likely

Use this when something is expected to happen because it seems true or real, often based on subjective judgment.

  • She is likely to come to the party tonight.
  • It's likely that they will finish the task ahead of schedule.
possible

This word is suitable when something can happen or be done but without implying how likely it is to happen.

  • It's possible to improve your skills with practice.
  • Is it possible to arrive there by 5 PM?
feasible

This word fits situations where something can be done or achieved, often used in practical or technical contexts.

  • Building a bridge here is feasible with the current technology.
  • It's not feasible to complete the project by next week without additional help.

Examples of usage

  • It is probable that it will rain tomorrow.
  • There are several probable explanations for the phenomenon.
Context #2 | Noun

statistics

The proportion of times something is likely to happen

Examples of usage

  • The probable of winning the lottery is very low.
  • The probable of getting a red card in the game is high.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In statistics, 'probable' is used to describe an event with a probability greater than 50%, indicating itโ€™s more likely than not to occur.
  • Weather forecasts often label certain conditions as 'probable' based on data analysis and patterns observed over time.
  • In genetics, certain traits are described as probable based on the probability of inheriting them from parents.

Psychology

  • Cognitive biases can influence how we perceive probability, causing individuals to overestimate or underestimate the likelihood of an event.
  • The 'availability heuristic' is a mental shortcut that can make people think something is more probable based on how easily examples come to mind.
  • Risk perception varies among individuals, affecting how probable they believe certain outcomes to be, especially in health and safety contexts.

Literature

  • Authors often use 'probable' scenarios to create tension, leading characters into situations that might realistically occur.
  • In mystery novels, clues are often described as probable, guiding readers to deduce solutions alongside the detective.
  • Shakespeare frequently played with the concept of probability in his works, examining fate and chance through character choices.

Pop Culture

  • Television and movie plots often hinge on probable events, creating suspense as characters navigate likely or unlikely outcomes.
  • Reality shows frequently present challenges that create probable situations for drama, as contestants make choices with uncertain results.
  • In video games, players often have to decide on probable actions based on the likelihood of success or failure in achieving goals.

Origin of 'probable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'probabilis', which means 'worthy of approval'.
  • It was first used in the English language around the late 14th century, showing its longstanding presence in communication.
  • The root 'probare' in Latin means 'to test or prove', reflecting the idea of assessing likelihood.

The word 'probable' comes from the Latin word 'probabilis', which means 'worthy of approval'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, its meaning evolved to signify something likely or expected to happen. 'Probable' is commonly used in various contexts to indicate the likelihood of an event or outcome.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,364, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.