wohl
probably, I suppose, likely · indeed, after all · well (feeling)
Wohl is a common adverb that softens statements, expresses probability or assumption, and can also mean 'well' in the sense of feeling good. It often translates to 'probably', 'I suppose', or 'indeed' depending on context.
What wohl means
- probably, I suppose, likely — Used to express an assumption or probability, often softening a statement.
- indeed, after all — Used to confirm or emphasize, often in response to doubt.
- well (feeling) — Used with 'sich fühlen' or 'sein' to describe well-being.
Heard in real German videos
Lines where wohl was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Das war wohl nichts.That didn't work out.
- Ich glaube, das wird wohl reichen.I think that should be enough.
- So wird das wohl auch nichts, was?That's not going to work either, huh?
Example sentences
- Er ist wohl krank.He is probably sick.
- Das wird wohl nicht klappen.That probably won't work.
- Ich fühle mich wohl.I feel well.
- Du hast wohl recht.You are probably right.
Common phrases
- wohl oder übelwhether one likes it or not
- sich wohl fühlento feel good/comfortable
- wohl wahrtrue indeed
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often confuse wohl with 'well' in all contexts, but wohl is not used as an adverb of manner like 'well' in English. For example, 'He sings well' is 'Er singt gut', not 'Er singt wohl'.
Don’t confuse it with
- gut — Gut means 'good' or 'well' in terms of quality or skill, while wohl refers to probability or well-being.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between wohl and wahrscheinlich?
Both mean 'probably', but wohl is more subjective and often used in spoken German to soften a statement, while wahrscheinlich is more objective and factual.
Can wohl mean 'well' as in 'I am well'?
Yes, when used with 'sich fühlen' or 'sein', e.g., 'Ich fühle mich wohl' (I feel well). But it does not mean 'well' as in 'doing something well'.
How do I use wohl to express 'I suppose'?
Place wohl after the verb or in the middle of the sentence: 'Er kommt wohl später' (He'll probably come later / I suppose he'll come later).