Meaning & Definition of word "Likely"

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    Likely

    /ˈlaɪkli/

    adjective:

    • 1. Having a high probability of occurring or being true.
      • Example: It is likely to rain tomorrow.
    • 2. Probable; expected to happen.
      • Example: She is likely to get the promotion based on her performance.
    • 3. Seeming suitable or appropriate.
      • Example: It seems likely that he will be the right candidate for the job.

    adverb:

    • 1. In a probable manner.
      • Example: He will likely arrive late due to traffic.

    Etymology

    Middle English likeli, from Old English liclic; akin to Old High German lihhilich.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    more likely than not:

    more than 50% chance of happening

    likely story:

    an assertion that is not believed to be true

    as likely as not:

    equally probable

    Related Words

    unlikely:

    not likely to happen or be true.

    likelihood:

    the state of being likely; probability.

    Slang Meanings of likely

    Meaning: For sure

    Example Sentence: That's likely going to happen.

    Meaning: No doubt

    Example Sentence: He's likely the best player on the team.