probable

Probable is an adjective that indicates something is likely to be true or to occur, though not certain. A probable outcome is supported by evidence or reasoning but remains tentative. The term is used to distinguish likelihood from certainty or from mere possibility.

Etymology: The word comes from Old French probable, from Latin probabilis meaning worthy of praise or believed, and entered English with the sense of credible or believable.

In probability and statistics, probable conveys a qualitative assessment of likelihood. It contrasts with possible (a lower degree of likelihood) and certain (high certainty). The adverb probably is used to express likelihood, as in “It will probably rain.”

Legal usage: In law, probable cause refers to a standard requiring reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has been committed or that evidence of a crime exists. It is not equivalent to proof beyond a reasonable doubt, but it is a threshold for certain legal actions such as warrants or arrests.

Usage: In formal writing, probable is a cautious, neutral term. For greater precision, writers may substitute likely, plausible, or probable in specific contexts. The phrase most probable is common, though the adverb probably is frequently suitable in everyday speech.