not expected to happen or be true, not likely to succeed or be chosen

Formal and Informal Expressions of unlikely

In different contexts, you can replace 'unlikely' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'improbable, doubtful' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'long shot, fat chance' is a commonplace synonym.

unlikely: Explore its Definition & Usage

unlikely Definition

1not expected to happen or be true
2not likely to succeed or be chosen

Using unlikely: Examples

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

Example
It is unlikely that it will rain today.
Example
It is unlikely that he will win the race.
Example
It is unlikely that they will accept your proposal.

unlikely Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for unlikely

Antonyms for unlikely

Phrases with unlikely

unlikely story
a story that is difficult to believe
Example
His explanation for being late was an unlikely story.
unlikely event
an event that is not expected to happen
Example
The chances of an earthquake happening in this area are very unlikely.
unlikely hero
a person who becomes a hero unexpectedly or in an unusual way
Example
The movie tells the story of an unlikely hero who saves the day.

📌

Summary: unlikely in Brief

The term 'unlikely' [ʌnˈlaɪkli] refers to something that is not expected to happen or be true, or not likely to succeed or be chosen. It can be used to describe events, situations, or people, as in 'It is unlikely that he will win the race' or 'an unlikely hero.' Synonyms include 'improbable' and 'doubtful,' while antonyms include 'likely' and 'probable.'