probable
“probable” means “probable” in Spanish (likely to happen).
probable, likely
Also: plausible
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Es probable que llueva esta tarde, mejor lleva paraguas.
B1It is probable that it will rain this afternoon, better take an umbrella.
La causa más probable del accidente fue la velocidad excesiva.
B2The most probable cause of the accident was excessive speed.
Los resultados probables de la elección se conocerán mañana.
B1The likely results of the election will be known tomorrow.
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Quick Quiz: probable
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'probable' and the required verb form?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin *probabilis*, meaning 'worthy of approval' or 'credible.' It shares roots with the English word 'prove' because something probable is something that can be supported or proven true.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'probable' change its ending for masculine and feminine nouns?
No, 'probable' is one of those adjectives that stays the same whether the noun is masculine (el resultado probable) or feminine (la causa probable). It only changes to 'probables' in the plural.
What is the difference between 'probable' and 'posible'?
'Posible' means something *can* happen (it's in the realm of possibility). 'Probable' means something is *likely* to happen (it has a higher chance based on evidence).