likely

adjective
UK: /ˈlaɪkli/
US: /ˈlaɪkli/

  1. Having a high probability of occurring or being true

    1. It is likely to rain today, so take an umbrella. [ ] [ ]
    2. Given his track record, it's highly likely that he will succeed in this venture. [ ] [ ]

  2. Seeming to be suitable or appropriate

    1. She is a likely candidate for the job because she is qualified. [ ] [ ]
    2. This old house is the most likely place to find the lost treasure, according to the map. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

presumably possible maybe liable probable
likely adverb

  1. Probably; in all likelihood

    1. They will likely arrive late because of the traffic. [ ] [ ]
    2. He will very likely forget our anniversary, as he always does. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "likely" in English means: Having a high probability of occurring or being true, Seeming to be suitable or appropriate.

The phonetic transcription of "likely" is /ˈlaɪkli/ in British English and /ˈlaɪkli/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "likely": presumably, possible, maybe, liable, probable.

Example usage of "likely": "It is likely to rain today, so take an umbrella.". More examples on the page.