probably

Everyday

Probably means very likely; almost certainly, but not 100% sure. tree →

In the lessons

In maths and science, «probably» belongs with probability and chance: «likely», «unlikely», «certain», «impossible». In weather forecasts, «It will probably rain». In reasoning, probably means a good guess, not proof — check before saying it is true. Phrases: «most probably», «probably not».

Examples

• It will probably rain this afternoon. tree →
• She is probably at home. tree →
• You probably know the answer already. tree →
• We will probably win. tree →
• It's probably a squirrel in the garden. tree →
• He probably forgot his lunch. tree →
• Probably not — the shop closes at five. tree →
• The dog has probably eaten my sock. tree →

Note

Spelled «probably», not «probly». Noun: «probability»; adjective: «probable». «Probably» is stronger than «maybe» or «perhaps» and weaker than «certainly».

In Jewish tradition

In maths and science, «probably» belongs with probability and chance: «likely», «unlikely», «certain», «impossible». In weather forecasts, «It will probably rain». In reasoning, probably means a good guess, not proof — check before saying it is true. Phrases: «most probably», «probably not».

Examples

• Dr. Cassel is of the opinion that our author meant here, probably the invisible, celestial or universal axis that carries the whole Universe. (Sefer Yetzirah, Kalisch 1877) tree →
• It should probably be understood on one level as a reference to the ten digits of the decimal numeral system, though as we shall see, these Sefirot Belimah are imbued with metaphysical significance beyond mere numerals. (Sefer Yetzirah, Sefaria community translation) tree →
• Another association between language, mouth, and genitals, though the connection (if any) with the SY is unclear, is found in the idiom עָרְלַת שְׂפָתַיִם ʽorlat sefatayim ‘uncircumcised of lips’, probably meaning one who is unskilled in speech, e.g. [Exodus 6:12]. (Sefer Yetzirah, Sefaria community translation) tree →

Note

Spelled «probably», not «probly». Noun: «probability»; adjective: «probable». «Probably» is stronger than «maybe» or «perhaps» and weaker than «certainly».