What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
likely
Example
It's likely that it will rain tomorrow. [likely: adjective]
Example
She is likely to be late for the meeting. [likely: adverb]
Example
He has a likely chance of winning the race. [likely: noun]
expected
Example
The expected outcome of the experiment was achieved. [expected: adjective]
Example
As expected, the traffic was heavy during rush hour. [expected: adverb]
Example
It is expected that he will finish the project by the deadline. [expected: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Likely is more commonly used than expected in everyday language. Likely is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while expected is less common and more specific in its usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between likely and expected?
Both likely and expected can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, expected may be perceived as more formal due to its association with anticipated outcomes and obligations.
