probably going to happen or be true, having a high probability of occurring or being true

most likely, likely story, as likely as not

Formal and Informal Expressions of likely

In different contexts, you can replace 'likely' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'probable, expected' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'chance, odds' is a commonplace synonym.

likely: Explore its Definition & Usage

likely Definition

1probably going to happen or be true
2having a high probability of occurring or being true

Using likely: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "likely" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
It's likely that it will rain tomorrow.
Example
She is the likely candidate for the job.
Example
The team is likely to win the game.
Example
It's not likely that he will come back.

likely Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for likely

Antonyms for likely

Phrases with likely

most likely
the most probable or expected outcome
Example
The most likely scenario is that we will finish the project by next week.
likely story
a statement or excuse that is not believable
Example
He said he was sick, but I think it's a likely story.
as likely as not
equally probable or unlikely
Example
As likely as not, he will be late for the meeting.

Origins of likely

from Old Norse 'līkligr', meaning 'like, similar'

📌

Summary: likely in Brief

The term 'likely' [ˈlaɪkli] refers to something that is probably going to happen or be true, with a high probability of occurrence. It can be used to describe a person as the most probable candidate for a job or a team as the expected winner of a game. Phrases like 'most likely' and 'as likely as not' denote the probability of an event, while 'likely story' implies disbelief in a statement or excuse.