In this blog post, you will learn the difference between Probable and Possible, two words that are often used when talking about chances or likelihoods. Although they may look similar, their meanings are not the same. Understanding when to use each one will help you speak and write English more accurately.
You can explore our 100 confusing words list to expand your vocabulary skills!
Meanings of Probable and Possible
Probable
Probable means likely to happen or expected to be true. It shows a higher chance that something will occur.
Examples:
- It is probable that it will rain today.
- The team’s victory seems probable after their strong performance.
Possible
Possible means something that can happen, even if the chance is small. It only means that something might happen, not that it is likely.
Examples:
- It is possible to finish the project in two days.
- Anything is possible if you work hard.
Differences Between Probable and Possible
| Aspect | Probable | Possible |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Likely to happen | Can happen (but not certain) |
| Level of certainty | High | Low or uncertain |
| Usage | Used when there’s strong evidence | Used when there’s only a chance |
| Example | It’s probable that he will pass the test. | It’s possible that he will pass the test. |
Usage of Probable
1. Likely to happen:
- It’s probable that it will rain today.
- A win is probable after their great performance.
2. Used for strong chances:
- It’s probable he’ll arrive late.
- Success is probable with hard work.
Usage of Possible
1. Something that can happen:
- It’s possible to learn English online.
- Anything is possible with effort.
2. Used to show ability or chance:
- It’s possible she forgot your message.
- Is it possible to fix this phone?
Formal and Informal Usage
Formal
Probable: Common in written English, reports, and discussions.
- It is probable that market growth will continue.
Possible: Common in academic or professional speech.
- She’s probably coming tonight.
Informal
Probable: Used less often in casual talk.
- It is possible that demand may rise next year.
Possible: Frequently used in daily conversations.
- It’s possible he forgot.
Example Sentences with Probable
- It’s probable that we’ll reach the station on time.
- The results make success probable.
- It’s probable that she knows the answer.
- Rain is probable this evening.
- It seems probable that he will accept the offer.
- It’s probable that the movie will be a hit.
- The probable reason for delay is traffic.
- It’s probable that prices will rise soon.
- It’s probable that he misunderstood the question.
- It’s probable that the shop will open tomorrow.
- The weather forecast says snow is probable.
- It’s probable that she will win the competition.
- His failure was probable after missing so many classes.
- It’s probable that he will visit his parents.
- The probable cause of the noise was the wind.
- It’s probable that she will call later.
- The outcome is probable, given the evidence.
- It’s probable that the meeting will be canceled.
- A probable reason for her absence is illness.
- It’s probable that the team will qualify for the final.
Example Sentences with Possible
- It’s possible to learn English online.
- Is it possible to visit tomorrow?
- Anything is possible if you try.
- It’s possible she missed the message.
- It’s possible to fix the problem easily.
- It’s possible they’re already on their way.
- It’s possible to live without a smartphone.
- It’s possible to save money every month.
- Is it possible to change the date?
- It’s possible that he forgot his keys.
- It’s possible to travel by train instead.
- It’s possible she didn’t understand the joke.
- Is it possible to speak with the manager?
- It’s possible to make a cake without eggs.
- It’s possible they’ll visit next week.
- It’s possible to repair the old car.
- It’s possible that the game will end early.
- It’s possible she’s busy right now.
- It’s possible to succeed with hard work.
- It’s possible that the weather will improve tomorrow.
Summary on Probable and Possible
- Probable means likely to happen (high chance).
- Possible means can happen (uncertain or low chance).
- Use probable when you have evidence.
- Use possible when something could happen, even with no proof.
FAQs on Possible vs Probable
What is the main difference between probable and possible?
Probable means likely to happen, while possible means something can happen but is not certain.
Can I use probable and possible in the same sentence?
Yes. Example: “It’s possible it will rain, but not probable.”
Is probable more certain than possible?
Yes, probable shows a higher chance or likelihood than possible.
Which one is used in formal writing?
Both can be used, but probable is more formal in reports or academic writing.
What part of speech are probable and possible?
Both are adjectives used to describe the likelihood of events.
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