likely

[lahyk-lee]

adjective

likelier, likeliest 

1. probably or apparently destined (usually followed by an infinitive).

   something not likely to happen.

2. seeming like truth, fact, or certainty; reasonably to be believed or expected; believable.

   a likely story.

3. seeming to fulfill requirements or expectations; apparently suitable.

   a likely place for a restaurant.

   Synonyms: appropriate

4. showing promise of achievement or excellence; promising.

   a fine, likely young man.

adverb

1. probably.

   We will likely stay home this evening.

likely

/ ˈlaɪklɪ /

adjective

1. (usually foll by an infinitive) tending or inclined; apt

   likely to rain

2. probable

   a likely result

3. believable or feasible; plausible

4. appropriate for a purpose or activity

5. having good possibilities of success

   a likely candidate

6. dialect,  attractive, agreeable, or enjoyable

   her likely ways won her many friends

adverb

1. probably or presumably

2. very probably

Usage

Likely as an adverb is preceded by another, intensifying adverb, as in it will very likely rain or it will most likely rain. Its use without an intensifier, as in it will likely rain is regarded as unacceptable by most users of British English, though it is common in colloquial US English

Likely in the senses “probably destined” and “probably” is often preceded by a qualifying word like very, more, or quite: The board is very likely to turn down the request. The new system will quite likely increase profits. However, despite statements to the contrary in some usage guides, likely in these senses is standard without such a qualifier in all varieties of English: It will likely be a bitter debate. The shipment will likely arrive on Thursday. See also apt, liable.

Word History and Origins

Origin of likely¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English likli, from Old Norse līkligr; like ¹, -ly

Word History and Origins

Origin of likely¹

C14: from Old Norse līkligr

Example Sentences

"From now until the 2027 elections we will likely see more protests. Whether we like it or not, political awareness is growing in Angola, and elections are seen as a crucial moment for real change."

From BBC

Nor are they likely to satisfy the president, who has called for far deeper cuts.

From BBC

We would likely prefer the more secular appeal of Zohran Mamdani, another youthful candidate who is running to be mayor of New York City.

From Salon

Competing EV makers have been taking global market share from Tesla, and the trend looks likely to continue.

From Los Angeles Times

Kate O’Brian, who oversaw Scripps’ streaming news operation until late last year, said the less formal approach of streaming news channels is likely to be the norm going forward.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• acceptable 
• expected www.thesaurus.com
• fair 
• feasible 
• inclined 
• possible 
• prone 
• reasonable