unlikely

[ uhn-lahyk-lee ]

adjective

, un·like·li·er, un·like·li·est.

1. not likely to be or occur; improbable; marked by doubt.
2. holding little prospect of success; unpromising; likely to fail:

   He is an unlikely candidate for reelection.

3. not ingratiating; objectionable.

adverb

1. in an unlikely way.

unlikely

/ ʌnˈlaɪklɪ /

adjective

1. not likely; improbable

Derived Forms

• unˈlikeliness, noun

Other Words From

• un·likeli·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unlikely¹

First recorded in 1325–75, unlikely is from the Middle English word unlikli. See un- ¹, likely

Idioms and Phrases

see in the unlikely event .

Example Sentences

It added that it was "unlikely" the recalled onions were "sold to grocery stores or directly to consumers".

From BBC

Mark Cavendish says he would be unlikely to be a professional cyclist if he was attempting to start now "because it is completely based on how strong you are".

From BBC

There’s always a chance of a letdown, but that’s unlikely at home against a two-win opponent.

From Los Angeles Times

It is unlikely to pass a second reading, as Act's coalition partners have indicated they will not support it.

From BBC

Gaetz himself said last year that he would love to be attorney general while acknowledging it was unlikely.

From BBC

Related Words

• absurd
• implausible
• improbable
• inconceivable
• incredible
• rare
• remote
• strange
• unbelievable