Definitions

unlikely

[uhn-lahyk-lee] / ʌnˈlaɪk li /

ADJECTIVE

not probable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

absurd implausible improbable inconceivable incredible rare remote strange unbelievable

WEAK

contrary doubtful dubious faint not likely out of the ordinary outside chance questionable slight unconvincing unheard-of unimaginable untoward

Antonyms

STRONGEST

believable common credible likely plausible possible probable reasonable regular tenable usual

WEAK

imaginable probably

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.

Aqave drinks are unlikely to replace whisky, India's favourite spirit, he says, but they could carve out a market.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

So I think it is quite unlikely, just by consuming steak or consuming beef, that anything bad is going to happen to you.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

Investors in IPOs typically submit orders above what they hope to receive, knowing in a high-demand offering they are unlikely to get their full requests.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Newly installed Fed Chair Kevin Warsh faces inflation near double the 2% target and a $6.7 trillion balance sheet, unlikely to be addressed early.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

Hadley is a year and a half old, so we both know that’s unlikely.

From "Maybe He Just Likes You" by Barbara Dee

unlikely

Example Sentences

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