PROBABLY Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

probably

adverb

ˈprä-bə-blē

Definition of probably

as in likely

by reasonable assumption we would probably win that bet

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of probably Breastfeeding is linked to higher IQs in children, but mothers with higher IQs are more likely to breastfeed, and because IQ is partly genetic, their kids would probably have higher IQs anyway. — Olga Khazan, The Atlantic, 3 Aug. 2026 But Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is yet to comment — and that’s probably not surprising. — Sophie Tanno, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026 That was a move that probably should’ve been done in the offseason anyway. — David Troy Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026 Keep the thing the thing, and that’s probably the most important thing. — Doug Padilla, Oc Register, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for probably

Recent Examples of Synonyms for probably

Adverb

Central Washington will likely see even stronger winds, with gusts up to 35 mph possible starting Friday.

— Mary Gilbert, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026
Other, more recent ownership groups in Atlanta, New York and Miami would likely be in favor as well, as would clubs like the LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls.

— John Cassillo, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of likely

Adverb

Add the hour of scrolling, the rumination on a relationship that isn’t working, and (maybe the costliest line item of all) the constant, low-grade worry about what other people think.

— Nell Derick Debevoise Dewey, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
By advanced metrics, outgoing catcher Logan O’Hoppe was the worst defensive catcher in the big leagues, so maybe the bar is lower in Anaheim than elsewhere.

— Eno Sarris, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of maybe

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probable

probably

probation

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“Probably.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/probably. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of probably

adverb

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