we can probably

USAGE SUMMARY

You can use the phrase "we can probably" in written English.
It is often used to suggest a probability, or that something is likely to occur. For example: "We can probably get the report done by tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We can probably work this out.

The New York Times

I think we can probably convince him.

The New York Times

We can probably forgive him that one.

The Guardian - Sport

"We can probably score half the time.

The New York Times - Sports

We can probably bring it up a little".

The New York Times - Sports

"If we work together, we can probably sort it out".

The Guardian

We can probably dismiss that fourth option out of hand.

The New Yorker

I think we can probably call this one now.

The Guardian - Sport

This technology is beyond what we can probably comprehend.

The New York Times

We can probably borrow money on short notice more easily than we could otherwise".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But if nothing else, we can probably look forward to "Enron: The Movie".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can probably" to express a cautious prediction or a qualified ability. It indicates a higher degree of certainty than "we might" but less than "we definitely can".

Common error

Avoid using "we can probably" when you need to convey a firm commitment or guarantee. In such cases, opt for phrases like "we will" or "we can assure you" to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can probably" serves as a modal phrase expressing possibility or likelihood. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in contexts where speakers assess potential outcomes or capabilities, suggesting a degree of confidence without absolute certainty. As Ludwig AI states, it shows a probability, or that something is likely to occur.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we can probably" is a common and versatile way to express a degree of likelihood or qualified ability. Ludwig AI confirms that it suggests a probability. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, it's frequently found in news and media, indicating its appropriateness for general communication. While grammatically correct and widely used, it's important to avoid overstating certainty and to choose more decisive language when a firm commitment is needed. Related phrases like "we likely can" and "we might be able to" offer subtle variations in meaning, allowing for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we likely can

Swaps "probably" with "likely" and reorders the words, maintaining a similar level of confidence.

we most likely can

Adds emphasis to the likelihood, strengthening the degree of certainty.

it's probable that we can

Shifts the sentence structure to emphasize the probability as a separate clause.

we might be able to

Uses "might" to suggest a slightly lower probability than "probably".

we could potentially

Replaces "probably" with "potentially", emphasizing the possibility rather than the likelihood.

it is reasonable to assume we can

Introduces a degree of logical inference or deduction, suggesting the possibility is based on reasoning.

there's a good chance we can

Emphasizes the positive probability of success or ability.

we have a high likelihood of being able to

Formalizes the expression, emphasizing the statistical likelihood.

chances are we can

Uses a colloquial expression to indicate a good possibility.

we are inclined to think we can

Indicates a leaning towards a belief in the possibility, often based on subjective judgment.

FAQs

How can I use "we can probably" in a sentence?

Use "we can probably" to express a qualified assessment or a belief that something is likely to happen. For example, "We can probably finish the project on time if we work efficiently."

What phrases are similar to "we can probably"?

You can use phrases like "we likely can", "we might be able to", or "there's a good chance we can" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "we can probably" or "we definitely can"?

The choice depends on the level of certainty you want to express. Use "we can definitely" when you are very sure of something, and "we can probably" when there is a good chance, but not a certainty.

What's the difference between "we can probably" and "we can possibly"?

"We can probably" indicates a higher likelihood than "we can possibly". "Probably" suggests a good chance of success, while "possibly" simply means it's not impossible.