What does “probably not” mean vis a straight “No”?

Question

Is there a hideen meaning I am missing or is it just another way of saying no… but maybe nicer or something?

Dr. Rhianna Breitenberg Sr. · Accepted Answer

if someone says probably not, it means that they are still making up their mind, but they are leaning more towards no. But there is still a chance they could change their mind, and say yes. But when someone says no, they usually mean No!

Dr. Rhianna Breitenberg Sr. · Answer

Probably not, in a majority of cases, means no and it’s unlikely there’s any hidden meaning. It’s just a nicer way to say it. Like if someone asked if you were coming to their party and you just said “No”, It would sound kind of rude because it leaves no possiblity that you’ll be there and there’s no explanation of why. With “probably not”, you at least give off the impression that you’ve thought about it a little or considered it and that there’s still a possibility (even if you don’t plan at all on going). .

Dr. Rhianna Breitenberg Sr. · Answer

Probably Meaning

Dr. Rhianna Breitenberg Sr. · Answer

This Site Might Help You.RE:What does "probably not" mean vis a straight "No"? Is there a hideen meaning I am missing or is it just another way of saying no… but maybe nicer or something?

Dr. Rhianna Breitenberg Sr. · Answer

Probably not is a wimpy way of saying no. It means no, but the person saying it doesn’t want to deal with the argument that tends to result from a definitive no. Probably not appeases people without the conflict. Trouble is, it doesn’t end the discussion.

Dr. Rhianna Breitenberg Sr. · Answer

probably not is my way of saying, i could be completely wrong, but i don’t think i am. so i’m going to say probably not to cover all my bases .

Dr. Rhianna Breitenberg Sr. · Answer

probably not is a political term.

Everardo Feil

What does “probably not” mean vis a straight “No”?

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