Definitions
- Used to express a high degree of likelihood or probability. - Used to indicate that something is likely to happen or be true. - Used to suggest that something is very probable or expected.
- Used to express a high degree of probability or possibility. - Used to indicate that something is probable or expected to happen. - Used to suggest that something is very likely or anticipated.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words express a high degree of probability or likelihood.
- 2Both can be used to suggest that something is expected or anticipated.
- 3Both can be used in similar contexts, such as predicting future events or outcomes.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Probably is often used to modify verbs, while likely is used to describe nouns.
- 2Formality: Likely is considered more formal than probably.
- 3Position in sentence: Probably usually comes before the verb, while likely comes before the noun it describes.
- 4Degree of certainty: Probably suggests a higher degree of uncertainty than likely.
Remember this!
While both probably and likely express a high degree of probability or expectation, they differ in their part of speech, usage, formality, position in a sentence, and degree of certainty. Probably is an adverb that modifies verbs and suggests a higher degree of uncertainty, while likely is an adjective that describes nouns and is considered more formal.
