01
wohl
probably
Expresses an assumption or a high probability; in the sense of 'probably', 'presumably'.
example
Sie ist noch nicht da, sie wird wohl im Stau stehen.
She isn't here yet; she's probably stuck in traffic.
wohl
probably / well
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adverb 'wohl' is closely related to the noun 'das Wohl' (well-being, good). This connection helps you understand the basic positive meaning in expressions like 'sich wohl fühlen' (to feel well/comfortable).
EXAMPLE
Für das Wohl seiner Kinder würde er alles tun.
He would do anything for the well-being of his children.
Word order with assumptions
When 'wohl' expresses an assumption, it usually comes directly after the conjugated verb. It softens the statement and shows that the speaker is not completely sure.
EXAMPLE
Der Schlüssel ist nicht hier, ich habe ihn wohl zu Hause vergessen.
The key isn't here; I probably forgot it at home.
Fixed combination
The meaning 'to feel good' is used with 'wohl' almost exclusively in the fixed combination with the reflexive verb 'sich fühlen' (to feel). You cannot say 'Ich bin wohl' for 'I am well.'
EXAMPLE
Nach einem langen Spaziergang in der Natur fühle ich mich richtig wohl.
After a long walk in nature, I feel really good.
Context clue
In this meaning, 'wohl' introduces a contrast and is often followed by an 'aber' (but) in the second part of the sentence. It then has a similar function to 'zwar' (admittedly/although).
EXAMPLE
Er ist wohl ein guter Sportler, aber als Teamspieler ist er ungeeignet.
He is indeed a good athlete, but he is unsuitable as a team player.
Fixed expression
The expression 'wohl oder übel' (for better or worse) is a fixed idiom. It means that you have no choice and must accept or do something, whether you like it or not.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss die Überstunden wohl oder übel machen, auch wenn ich müde bin.
I have to do the overtime, for better or worse, even though I'm tired.
Compare with
wohl vs gut
good
'gut' and 'wohl' can both have to do with well-being. You can say: 'Ich fühle mich gut' (I feel good / well) or 'Ich fühle mich wohl' (I feel well / comfortable). 'gut' is more general and can also describe quality or doing something well. 'wohl' fits especially with a pleasant physical or emotional feeling, often in the phrase 'sich wohl fühlen' (to feel well / comfortable). Learners may confuse the words because both can fit when talking about health or feelings. Important: 'wohl' on its own can also mean 'probably', for example 'Er kommt wohl später' (He will probably come later). That is not the same as 'gut'.
wohl
Nach dem Essen fühlt sich meine Freundin wieder wohl.
After the meal, my friend feels well again.
gut
Nach der Pause kann sich meine Freundin wieder gut konzentrieren.
After the break, my friend can concentrate well again.
In real life
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