# likelihood

/ˈɫaɪkɫiˌhʊd/ (US) · /lˈaɪklihˌʊd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/likelihood
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. probability

noun · CEFR B2

the chance that something will happen.

For teachers: the probability of a specified outcome or the state of being probable.

- There is a high likelihood of rain this afternoon, so you should take an umbrella.
- Given the current economic climate, there is a strong likelihood that interest rates will remain stable for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Usage: Commonly used in the phrase 'in all likelihood' to mean 'very probably'.

### 2. statistical probability

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a measurement in math used to see how well a model fits the data you have.

For teachers: the probability that a particular set of observed data was generated by a specific statistical model or parameter.

- The scientist calculated the likelihood to see which theory best explained the results.
- The maximum likelihood estimation provides a method for finding the parameter values that make the observed data most probable.

Usage: Often used as a technical term in 'maximum likelihood estimation'.

### 3. resemblance

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic

the quality of looking like someone or something else.

For teachers: the state of being similar in appearance or character; likeness.

- The old painting showed a clear likelihood to the king's younger brother.
- The poet remarked upon the strange likelihood between the fading autumn leaves and the passing of human youth.

Teaching tip: This sense is archaic; modern speakers use 'likeness' or 'resemblance' instead.

## Examples

- There is a high likelihood of rain this afternoon.
- The likelihood of finding a parking spot in the city center decreases significantly after nine in the morning.
- Economists are debating the likelihood that the central bank will raise interest rates before the end of the fiscal quarter, given the recent cooling of inflation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.