likely

[lahyk-lee] / ˈlaɪk li /

ADJECTIVE

probable, apt, hopeful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

acceptable expected fair feasible inclined possible prone reasonable

WEAK

achievable anticipated assuring attainable believeable conceivable conjecturable credible destined disposed favorite given to imaginable in favor of in the cards in the habit of inferable liable odds-on on the verge of ostensible plausible practicable predisposed presumable promising rational seeming subject to supposable tending thinkable true up-and-coming verisimilar workable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

impossible unlikely unreasonable

WEAK

implausible inapt unforeseeable

ADVERB

probably

Synonyms

STRONGEST

presumably

WEAK

assumably doubtless doubtlessly in all likelihood in all probability like as not most likely no doubt presumptively prima facie seemingly to all appearances

Antonyms

WEAK

improbably unlikely

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“The war will go on for some time, and further escalations are increasingly likely, either intentional or accidental,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

While shares of oil producers would likely take an immediate hit, pipeline companies would be somewhat insulated because they operate on long-term contracts with producers.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

One of the group's founders, Tracey Wilson, told the BBC they are advising those who declared their firearms to withdraw their application pending the court's decision, which likely won't come for months.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Looking at factors outside of the jobs report, it’s apparent that things will be sluggish, and are likely to slow even further.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

So it’s very likely that Ridge’s interactions with her are what led to the founding in the first place.

From "The First State of Being" by Erin Entrada Kelly

likely

Example Sentences

Related Words