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

Vaccination, which has typically been recommended for older adults, reduces the likelihood of shingles and lowers the risk of postherpetic neuralgia, or long-term nerve pain that can persist after the rash clears.

From Science Daily

Here's a crucial detail: the lower likelihood of reaching 100 among non-meat eaters was only observed in underweight participants.

From Science Daily

"To sentence my 69-year-old father under the pretext that his actions lowered the 'likelihood' of my return to stand trial is not justice; it is a judicial farce," she said.

From Barron's

Niello said he hoped that the public outrage triggered by Funston’s case would increase the likelihood of the bill passing this year.

From Los Angeles Times

"House prices in Wales should continue to outperform the UK average. This will be supported by a gradually improving economy and the likelihood of further interest rate cuts to come."

From BBC

Related Words

• possibility
• probability
• prospect
• tendency
• trend