Words / B1

LYKL-ee/ˈlaɪkli/

Likely means probably going to happen. Rain is likely; it is likely that…; likely to + verb. Possible is weaker (it might). Probable is a close synonym, a little more formal. Likely is an adjective, not usually an adverb in British English — use probably for that. Unlikely is the opposite.

Meaning

Probably going to happen.

Examples

• “Rain is likely this afternoon.”
• “She is likely to get the job.”
• “It is likely that prices will rise.”

Good to know

likely to + verb. it is likely that. Adverb of probability: probably. Opposite: unlikely.

Near in meaning

probable

New