likely

[ lahyk-lee ]

adjective

, like·li·er, like·li·est.

1. probably or apparently destined (usually followed by an infinitive):

   something not likely to happen.

2. seeming like truth, fact, or certainty; reasonably to be believed or expected; believable:

   a likely story.

3. seeming to fulfill requirements or expectations; apparently suitable:

   a likely place for a restaurant.

   Synonyms: appropriate

4. showing promise of achievement or excellence; promising:

   a fine, likely young man.

adverb

1. probably:

   We will likely stay home this evening.

likely

/ ˈlaɪklɪ /

adjective

1. usually foll by an infinitive tending or inclined; apt

   likely to rain

2. probable

   a likely result

3. believable or feasible; plausible
4. appropriate for a purpose or activity
5. having good possibilities of success

   a likely candidate

6. dialect.
   attractive, agreeable, or enjoyable

   her likely ways won her many friends

adverb

1. probably or presumably
2. as likely as not
   very probably

Usage Note

Likely in the senses “probably destined” and “probably” is often preceded by a qualifying word like very, more, or quite: The board is very likely to turn down the request. The new system will quite likely increase profits. However, despite statements to the contrary in some usage guides, likely in these senses is standard without such a qualifier in all varieties of English: It will likely be a bitter debate. The shipment will likely arrive on Thursday. apt, liable.

Usage

Likely as an adverb is preceded by another, intensifying adverb, as in it will very likely rain or it will most likely rain. Its use without an intensifier, as in it will likely rain is regarded as unacceptable by most users of British English, though it is common in colloquial US English

Word History and Origins

Origin of likely¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English likli, from Old Norse līkligr; like ¹, -ly

Word History and Origins

Origin of likely¹

C14: from Old Norse līkligr

Example Sentences

The researchers also found that immune-related genes underwent selective pressures across multiple time periods, likely as ancient populations adapted to new diseases introduced by the spread of agriculture and subsequent migrations.

From Science Daily

The researchers found that adult chimpanzees were more likely to engage in social play before participating in group activities, such as monkey hunting or territorial defense against hostile outsiders.

From Science Daily

People who were nauseated by the drugs were more likely to report increased food waste.

From Science Daily

With Smith facing likely defeat and, with it, possibly the end of his leadership, he turned to Prescott - the lifelong trade unionist - to win over waverers.

From BBC

He noted this weekend’s rain could help ease some fire concerns, but likely will not eliminate those worries entirely.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• acceptable
• expected
• fair
• feasible
• inclined
• possible
• prone
• reasonable