likelihood

American  

[lahyk-lee-hood] / ˈlaɪk liˌhʊd /

Or likeliness

noun

1. the state of being likely or probable; probability.

2. a probability or chance of something.

   There is a strong likelihood of his being elected.

3. Archaic. indication of a favorable end; promise.

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likelihood British  

/ ˈlaɪklɪˌnɪs, ˈlaɪklɪˌhʊd /

noun

1. the condition of being likely or probable; probability

2. something that is probable

3. statistics the probability of a given sample being randomly drawn regarded as a function of the parameters of the population. The likelihood ratio is the ratio of this to the maximized likelihood See also maximum likelihood

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Other Word Forms

• superlikelihood noun

Etymology

Origin of likelihood

First recorded in 1350–1400, likelihood is from the Middle English word liklihood. See likely, -hood

Example Sentences

This raises the likelihood, some experts say, that outsiders may hold off on rebuilding to maximize their investment.

From Los Angeles Times

Kiki said she now recognised her triggers and her likelihood to gamble during certain points of her menstrual cycle, and has a strategy for tackling them.

From BBC

The problem for regional states wouldn’t only be the initial sale but the likelihood Ankara would reverse-engineer the aircraft to bolster its military industry.

From The Wall Street Journal

The greatest likelihood of significant snow will be through Wales and the Midlands where there will be 5-10cm, and perhaps in excess of 20cm, especially into the hills.

From BBC

As far as Venezuela developments go, “the market is not seeing the likelihood of the same disruption as a Middle East involvement,” Compernolle said in a phone interview.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• possibility
• probability
• prospect
• tendency
• trend