Unlikely

/ʌnˈlaɪkli/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

not likely to happen or be true; improbable.

It is unlikely that we will finish the project on time.

having a low probability or chance of occurring.

The forecast indicates a very unlikely chance of snow this weekend.

not expected; unexpected.

He made an unlikely success in the field of music, despite having no formal training.

not suitable or appropriate.

It seems unlikely that she would agree to such terms.

Combination of 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'likely' from Old English 'lic' meaning 'like'.

unlikely event

An event that is probably not going to happen.

unlikely scenario

A situation that is improbable or cannot easily occur.

unlikely hero

A person who becomes a hero in unexpected circumstances.

likelihood

The state of being probable or likely.

likely

Having a high probability of occurring.

improbable

Not likely to happen or be true.

Not a chance.

When he asked if she would go out with him again, she just laughed and said, 'Unlikely!'

A snowball's chance.

He has about a snowball's chance of getting that promotion—it's unlikely.