probablemente
/pɾoˌbableˈmente/
The English word "probably" is translated into Spanish as probablemente.
Probablemente is used to express that something is likely to happen or is likely to be true.
Which one should you use?
While probablemente is the standard way to say "probably", you can also use the phrase es probable que to mean "it is probable that". In more formal settings, the word posiblemente can be used to mean either "probably" or "possibly".
How does it change in a sentence?
If you choose to use the alternative phrase es probable que, you must use the subjunctive mood in the clause that follows it.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾoˌbableˈmente/
Did you know?
- In some dialects, people use the phrase a lo mejor to mean 'probably'. This phrase literally translates to 'at the best', yet it functions as a common way to express probability.
- The English word 'probably' and the Spanish probablemente both trace their roots back to the Latin 'probabilis', which originally meant 'worthy of approval' or 'provable'.
- In casual conversation, Spanish speakers often replace probablemente with the phrase seguramente. While it literally means 'surely', it is frequently used to mean 'probably'.
Examples in context
- Él probablemente no vendrá.He probably won't come.This sentence shows the placement of probablemente in a sentence.Tatoeba #633251 by clerval, translation #274994 by CK
- Probablemente no lo logrará.He probably will not win it.This sentence demonstrates how to use probablemente to express a likely outcome.Tatoeba #4102561 by Georgelliot, translation #4102867 by jmcd93
- Probablemente no era verdad.It was probably not true.This sentence shows how to use probablemente to express that something was likely not true.Tatoeba #5038213 by don_ramon, translation #5038196 by CK
- Probablemente llegaré tarde a la reunión.I will probably arrive late to the meeting.
- Seguramente aprobarán el examen.They will probably pass the exam.
- Posiblemente lleguen tarde por el tráfico.They will probably arrive late due to the traffic.
- 201 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
María and Javier are discussing a possible rainstorm.
- MaríaMira las nubes, probablemente va a llover.Look at the clouds, it will probably rain.
- JavierTienes razón, yo no tengo paraguas.You are right, I don't have an umbrella.
- MaríaProbablemente el clima mejore más tarde.The weather will probably improve later.
- JavierEspero que sea así, María.I hope that is the case, María.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry probablemente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
