meaning - In simple words, what is the difference between 'possible' and 'probable'?

Would anyone kindly explain the difference between these?

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  Possible

  
  


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  Probable

  
  

I have searched dictionaries and on all over the Internet, but I have not been able to understand yet what the difference is!

Answer

The specific percentage probabilities depend on context but in short;

• Possible means it can happen, (be it unlikely or likely - however it is more often used for things which are unlikely)


• Probably means it is likely to happen

Related terms;

• Definite means it will happen.


• Improbably means it could happen but it is unlikely


• Impossible means it cannot happen

Use of probable or possible for things which are definite

It would feel very unnatural (and give the wrong meaning) to say that something definite was probable or possible and should be avoided. For example I would say "it is definite that I am using a computer to type this" not "it is probable I am using a computer to type this". This is because the strongest term should be used to describe the likelihood

However; when used as a condition it becomes acceptable. For example "If it is possible that it will be sunny tomorrow we will go to the park" or "If it is probable that it will be sunny tomorrow we will go to the park", if the weather reporter gives a forecast of 100% chance of sun then you still go to the park.