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

Neither promoter Goldenvoice nor representatives for each artist responded to requests for comment on the bill, but outlets including Rolling Stone have cited them as likely or confirmed performers.

From Los Angeles Times

In a study released earlier this month, the National Retail Federation said prices on products that rely heavily on imports, such as electronics, toys, clothing, furniture, household appliances and travel goods, would likely increase.

From Salon

And researchers will likely need to develop speedier versions to be practical.

From Science Magazine

A potential deal would likely establish a timeline for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the south of Lebanon and include the deployment there of thousands of additional troops of the Lebanese army.

From BBC

Atmospheric rivers are also more likely to occur because of climate change.

From Salon

Related Words

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