is probably correct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is probably correct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty about the accuracy of a statement or idea, suggesting that it is likely true but not definitively so. Example: "Based on the evidence presented, the conclusion drawn by the researcher is probably correct, but further studies are needed to confirm it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He is probably correct.

The New York Times - Sports

"The direction is probably correct," Mr. Labé said.

The New York Times

In this, at least, he is probably correct.

The Guardian - Business

2 52pm: "Your premable is probably correct," confirms Otis Farnsworth, whose name I want.

The Guardian - Sport

He is probably correct that these "missed" people are largely lower income, less educated whites.

The New York Times

But the advertising titan is probably correct to detect a row in the offing.

The Guardian - Business

The tradition that the Sabines were the parent stock of the Samnite tribes is probably correct.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sadly, in a political environment laced with lunacy, that calculation is probably correct.

The New York Times

Zverzhanovski said: "The working assumption, which is probably correct, is that firearms come via the same routes that drugs do.

The Guardian

I think that the speculation is probably correct, but I think we need to be very cautious.

The New York Times - Science

But the Bush administration's inclination to step back from the conflict is probably correct right now, he says.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is probably correct" when you want to express a qualified agreement or indicate that something is likely true based on the available evidence, without making an absolute assertion.

Common error

Avoid using "is probably correct" when the evidence strongly supports a definitive conclusion. Instead, opt for phrases that convey certainty, such as "is undoubtedly correct" or "is certainly true".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is probably correct" functions as an epistemic modal, expressing a qualified assertion or judgment about the correctness of a statement, idea, or claim. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's suitable for indicating a likelihood of truth without absolute certainty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

22%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is probably correct" is a versatile phrase used to express a qualified agreement or a likely truth, as supported by the variety of examples provided by Ludwig AI. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. Remember to use it when you want to convey a sense of likelihood without absolute certainty. The alternative phrases like "is likely accurate" or "seems to be right" can add subtle nuances to your writing depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is likely accurate

This alternative suggests a strong possibility of accuracy, placing slightly more emphasis on the accuracy itself than the original phrase.

is most likely true

Similar to the original, but focuses more on the truth aspect, suggesting a high probability of being factual.

seems to be right

This phrase expresses a perception of correctness based on available information or evidence.

appears to be valid

Suggests that something holds up under scrutiny or initial assessment.

one can assume it's correct

Implies a reasoned acceptance of correctness, based on certain assumptions or premises.

it is reasonable to assume it's correct

Highlights the rationality behind considering something as correct.

it's plausibly correct

Suggests a sense of believability in its correctness, even if not definitively proven.

it's conceivably accurate

Expresses that while not certain, the correctness is within the realm of possibility.

it may well be accurate

Implies a good chance of being accurate, adding a touch of emphasis.

it's presumably right

Suggests that something is accepted as correct until proven otherwise.

FAQs

What does "is probably correct" mean?

The phrase "is probably correct" indicates that something is likely true or accurate, but there is still a degree of uncertainty. It suggests a conclusion based on available evidence without making an absolute claim.

What can I say instead of "is probably correct"?

You can use alternatives like "is likely accurate", "seems to be right", or "appears to be valid" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "is probably correct"?

It's appropriate to use "is probably correct" when you want to express a qualified agreement or suggest that something is likely true based on the available evidence, but you're not entirely certain.

Is "is probably correct" a formal or informal expression?

The phrase "is probably correct" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication.