The Opposite(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.
Explore all Antonyms of “likely”
Definitions and Examples of unlikely, improbable, doubtful
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Not expected to happen or be true.
Example
It is unlikely that it will snow in this tropical country.
Not likely to happen or be true.
Example
Winning the lottery is improbable, but not impossible.
Not likely to be true or to happen; uncertain.
Example
It's doubtful that he will show up on time, given his track record.
Key Differences: unlikely vs improbable vs doubtful
- 1Unlikely suggests that something is not expected to happen, but it is still possible.
- 2Improbable implies that something is highly unlikely to happen, but there is still a slim chance.
- 3Doubtful conveys a higher degree of uncertainty and skepticism than unlikely and improbable.
Effective Usage of unlikely, improbable, doubtful
- 1Express Probability: Use likely and its antonyms to express the likelihood of something happening.
- 2Make Predictions: Incorporate these words in conversations to make predictions about future events.
- 3Discuss Possibilities: Use these antonyms to discuss the possibility or impossibility of something happening.
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.
