What is the opposite of “likely”?

What is the antonym of “likely”?

The antonyms of likely are unlikely, improbable, and doubtful. These words convey the opposite meaning of the likelihood or probability of something happening.

Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

unlikely

Not expected to happen or be true.

Example

It is unlikely that it will snow in this tropical country.

improbable

Not likely to happen or be true.

Example

Winning the lottery is improbable, but not impossible.

doubtful

Not likely to be true or to happen; uncertain.

Example

It's doubtful that he will show up on time, given his track record.

How are these antonyms different from each other?

• 1. Unlikely suggests that something is not expected to happen, but it is still possible.
• 2. Improbable implies that something is highly unlikely to happen, but there is still a slim chance.
• 3. Doubtful conveys a higher degree of uncertainty and skepticism than unlikely and improbable.

Good things to know

• 1. Express Probability: Use likely and its antonyms to express the likelihood of something happening.
• 2. Make Predictions: Incorporate these words in conversations to make predictions about future events.
• 3. Discuss Possibilities: Use these antonyms to discuss the possibility or impossibility of something happening.

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Remember this!

The antonyms of likely are unlikely, improbable, and doubtful. These words convey different degrees of probability and uncertainty. Use them to express probability, make predictions, and discuss possibilities.