Probable and likely are both adverbs that express the chance of something happening, but they have slightly different meanings and uses. Likely suggests a higher probability than probable. Something that is likely is more expected to happen compared to something that is probable. Probable suggests a reasonable chance of something happening, but it doesn't imply the same level of certainty as likely.

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference:

• Likely: "It's likely to rain today." (Meaning: There's a high chance of rain.) Translation: There is a strong chance of rain today.
• Probable: "It's probable that he'll be late." (Meaning: There's a reasonable chance he'll be late, but it's not a certainty.) Translation: It is reasonably possible that he will be late.

Notice how 'likely' implies a stronger expectation of rain than 'probable' does for the lateness. 'Likely' suggests a higher degree of certainty.

Another example:

• Likely: "She is likely to win the competition." (Meaning: She has a good chance of winning.) Translation: She has a strong chance of winning the competition.
• Probable: "It is probable that she will pass the exam." (Meaning: There is a reasonable chance she will pass, but there is still a chance she might not). Translation: There is a reasonable chance she will pass the exam.

In summary, while both words indicate a possibility, 'likely' suggests a greater probability and higher expectation than 'probable'. Choosing between them depends on the nuance you want to convey and the strength of the expectation.

Happy learning!