likelihood
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the chance that something will happen.
the probability of a specified outcome or the state of being probable.
Simple“There is a high likelihood of rain this afternoon, so you should take an umbrella.”
In context“Given the current economic climate, there is a strong likelihood that interest rates will remain stable for the remainder of the fiscal year.”
UsageCommonly used in the phrase 'in all likelihood' to mean 'very probably'.
PitfallThere is a high likelihood for rain today. There is a high likelihood of rain today.The noun likelihood is almost always followed by the preposition 'of' or a 'that' clause.
SynonymsAntonymsimpossibilityunlikelihood - 02 C1 Advanced
a measurement in math used to see how well a model fits the data you have.
the probability that a particular set of observed data was generated by a specific statistical model or parameter.
Simple“The scientist calculated the likelihood to see which theory best explained the results.”
In context“The maximum likelihood estimation provides a method for finding the parameter values that make the observed data most probable.”
UsageOften used as a technical term in 'maximum likelihood estimation'.
Synonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
the quality of looking like someone or something else.
the state of being similar in appearance or character; likeness.
Simple“The old painting showed a clear likelihood to the king's younger brother.”
In context“The poet remarked upon the strange likelihood between the fading autumn leaves and the passing of human youth.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is archaic; modern speakers use 'likeness' or 'resemblance' instead.
SynonymsAntonymsdifferencedissimilarity
Usage decrease likelihood · increase likelihood · increased likelihood
“The research also suggests that heat stress may increase the likelihood of adverse outcomes for the mother and child, particularly in higher-risk pregnancies.”
“Met Office scientists have said there is an increasing likelihood of extreme temperatures in the UK , and that the chance of exceeding 40C is accelerating.”
From Middle English liklihode, equivalent to likely + -hood.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.