probable

UK: /ˈprɒbəbəl/ | US: /ˈprɑːbəbəl/

Definition
  1. adj. likely to happen or be true

  2. adj. having more evidence in favor than against

Structure
prob <prove, test>able <capable of>prob <prove, test>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word probable traces back to Latin probabilis, meaning "capable of being proved" or "worthy of approval." It combines probare (to test/prove) with -abilis (ability), reflecting the idea of something being demonstrably likely or credible. Over time, it shifted from "provable" to its modern sense of "likely" in Middle English, influenced by legal and philosophical discourse.

Examples
  1. It is probable that the meeting will be postponed due to the storm.

  2. The probable cause of the accident was mechanical failure.

  3. Her theory is the most probable explanation for the phenomenon.

  4. He is a probable candidate for the leadership position.

  5. The probable outcome of the experiment aligns with our hypothesis.