Difference between Apparently, Presumably, and Probably

Key difference: Apparently is used to indicate obviousness; something that is accepted or believed to be true depending on the facts at hand. Presumably is used to indicate something is assumed or understood. Whereas, probably indicates something that is likely to happen.

Apparently, presumably, and probably are three terms that are often confused. The main reason for the confusion is that adjectives or adverbs, meaning that these are extra words that are not required to be used in the English language but are used in order to like the language tone and flow.

There is not much difference between apparently, presumably, and probably. The term, apparently, is commonly used to indicate obviousness; something that is accepted or believed to be true depending on the facts at hand. Presumably is used to indicate something is assumed or understood. Whereas, probably indicates something that is likely to happen.

For example: I will probably go to the movies tomorrow. Presumably, they will have seats for the evening show. The new Tom Hanks movie is apparently good.

The table lists the differences between Apparently, Presumably, and Probably:

 

Apparently

Presumably

Probably

Definition according to Dictionary.com

  1. Readily seen; exposed to sight; open to view; visible: The crack in the wall was readily apparent.
  2. Capable of being easily perceived or understood; plain or clear; obvious: The solution to the problem was apparent to all.
  3. According to appearances, initial evidence, incomplete results, etc.; ostensible rather than actual: He was the apparent winner of the election.

 

  1. By assuming reasonably; probably: Since he is a consistent winner, he is presumably a superior player.
  1. In all likelihood; very likely: He will probably attend.

Type

Adjective

Adverb

Adverb

When to use

Apparently is used to indicate something that is understood or accepted depending on the facts available.

Presumably is used when something is assumed or guessed.

Probably is used when something has a high probability or happening, i.e. it is very likely.

Examples

  • Before the doctor is willing to add the phrase "apparently healthy," he scrutinizes the patient's skin.
  • Here I highlighted the bit that you apparently missed.
  • This was apparently the usage as early as the 16th century.
  • He apparently sued over debts as small as two shillings.
  • The scholar apparently had many professional contacts but few close friends.
  • Presumably a diplomatic officer is under as strict discipline as an army officer.
  • If the allegation holds up, next comes a presumably deep investigation.
  • It presumably gets difficult if you're talking to people from different castes at the same time.
  • Frog toxins engage the nose and make them thoroughly unappetizing to humans, and presumably predators as well.
  • Presumably they would protect the letter with a paper casing.
  • In my opinion, you probably shouldn't teach online if: Your cell phone only makes phone calls.
  • This time probably isn't different.
  • You've probably promised yourself to get off the couch and get some exercise.
  • This is probably a good start for now, I just want to get the discusion rolling.
  • They'll probably just stay put.

Image Courtesy: educa.madrid.org

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Comments

Not helpful.you make things more complicated. please use Longman essential activator.

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