Meaning & Definition of word "Likely"
to
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.