likely
/ˈlʌɪkli
/adjective (likelier, likeliest)
1Such as well might happen or be true; probable: speculation on the likely effect of opting out [with clause]: it was likely that he would make a televised statement [with infinitive]: sales are likely to drop further...
- It is likely that many Australian homes do not even have a Bible, and those that do, leave it unread.
- If the legs move at each strain it is likely that the cow will calve without too much trouble.
- We are still finalising the design but it is likely that these specific premises will be affected.
Synonyms
probable, distinctly possible, to be expected, odds-on, on, possible, credible, plausible, believable, within the bounds of possibility, imaginable;
expected, anticipated, natural, prospective, predictable, predicted, foreseeable, ten to one, liable;
sure, destined, fated;
in the wind, in the air
informal on the cards, a pound to a penny
2Apparently suitable; promising: a likely-looking spot...
- Fay's apparent sweet tooth is likely to be rooted in a problem with blood sugar balance.
- I was just in a foul mood or something like that, most likely, so accept my humblest apologies.
- One reason for Essex's likely limitation on imported labour is the high cost of housing.
Synonyms
suitable, appropriate, apposite, fit, fitting, acceptable, proper, right;
reasonable, promising, hopeful
likely to succeed, promising, talented, gifted
informal up-and-coming
adverb
Probably: we will most likely go to a bar...
- By the laws of probability, the culprit was most likely an obnoxious American tourist.
- Maybe even him, if he was strong enough, but more then likely the older females would fight.
- I explained it was most likely the blonde hair making my skin colour look different in contrast.
Synonyms
probably, in all probability, presumably, no doubt, doubtlessly
informal like enough, (as) like as not
Usage
In standard British English, when likely is used as an adverb it must be preceded by a submodifier such as very, most, or more, as in we will most likely see him later. In informal US English, use without a submodifier is very common and not regarded as incorrect, as in we will likely see him later.
Phrases
a likely story
as likely as not
not likely!
Derivatives
likeliness
- These questions address different aspects of confidence relating to the size of bribes, the possibility of additional requests, and the likeliness of opportunism.
- A final possibility centres around a likeliness that exercise success here was more due to the presence of fun and enjoyment, than the use of distraction.
- Yet another problem is the high degree of likeliness that a defendant possibly subject to the death penalty if found guilty will be found guilty.
Origin
Middle English: from Old Norse líkligr, from líkr (see like1).