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

This year, there has been a particularly wide array of features highlighting the Jewish experience — both fact-based and fictionalized — that are likely to be center stage come awards time.

From Los Angeles Times

It still needs a customer engine to plug the gap before the bespoke Cadillac engine is ready - probably by 2028 or so - but that is now likely to be a Ferrari.

From BBC

“Individual wolves are more likely to attack sheep and other domesticated animals,” Mr Haring explains.

From BBC

But, for those who spend more time than they'd like to admit scrolling through TikTok, these names are likely to be all over their For You Page.

From BBC

According to the researchers, these risk reductions are likely driven by the replacement of red and processed meats with plant proteins.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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