How to spell probably
A Year 3 and 4 statutory spelling word, with the tricky part explained and a tip that makes it stick.
The answer
probably
P-R-O-B-A-B-L-Y
The part to watch: probable, with -le changed to -ly. The underlined letters are the ones most people get wrong.
The tricky part
Probably is built from probable. Quick speech says "probly", which loses the middle a and b.
Probably is one of the words on the Year 3 and 4 list with the -ly ending. Most of these words are made by adding -ly to a root word. Spell the root first, then add -ly. A root ending in -le swaps the -le for -ly, as probable becomes probably.
Common mistakes with probably
- Wrong: probalyRight: probably
- Wrong: proballyRight: probably
- Wrong: probableyRight: probably
A way to remember it
Say "prob-AB-ly": there is an "ab" hiding in the middle.
Probably in syllables
prob · a · bly
Probably has 3 syllables. Say each one as you write it. Often said "prob-lee". Saying all three beats keeps the a and the b.
In a sentence
It will probably rain this afternoon.
Probably on the statutory list
Probably is on the Year 3 and 4 statutory word list in the national curriculum for England. Children are taught these words in Years 3 and 4, when they are 7 to 9.
Test yourself
A short spelling test that starts with probably, then nine more words from the Year 3 and 4 list, read aloud. It works in your browser.
More words with the -ly ending
These words from the Year 3 and 4 list share the same pattern as probably.
More words
Questions parents ask
How do you spell probability?
The -able of probable changes to -ability: probability.
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