English Reference

Word

likely

Phoneticslike·ly, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈɫaɪkɫi/

UK/lˈaɪkli/

Definitions

01probable

A2 · Elementary

adj. used to say that something will probably happen or is probably true.

adj. denoting a high probability that an event will occur or that a statement is factual.

“It is likely that the weather will improve by this afternoon.”

“Given the current economic indicators, a further reduction in interest rates seems likely before the end of the fiscal year.”

Synonyms

probableexpectedliable

Antonyms

unlikelyimprobable

02suitable or promising

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. looking like the right person or thing for a particular purpose.

adj. seeming suitable, appropriate, or promising for a specific role or outcome.

“The HR manager is interviewing a few likely candidates for the job.”

“The scouts identified several likely locations for the new regional headquarters, focusing on areas with excellent transport links.”

Synonyms

suitableappropriatepromising

Antonyms

unsuitable

03believable

C1 · Advanced Formal

adj. seeming like it could be true.

adj. having the appearance of truth or credibility; plausible.

“That seems like a likely explanation for why the machine stopped working.”

“The witness provided a likely account of the events, though the investigators remained skeptical until they found physical evidence.”

Synonyms

plausiblebelievablecredible

Antonyms

implausibleunbelievable

04probably

B1 · Intermediate American English

adv. used to say that something will probably happen.

adv. used as a sentence adverb to indicate probability; functions as a synonym for 'probably'.

“We will very likely be late if we don't leave now.”

“The project will most likely be completed ahead of schedule if the current pace of production is maintained.”

Synonyms

probablypresumably

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “likely” in context.

01. conjunction likely 02. conversely likely 03. equally likely 04. especially likely 05. experience likely 06. highly likely 07. increasingly likely 08. likely candidate 09. likely consequence 10. likely explanation 11. particularly likely 12. quite likely

Usage

Commonly used in the pattern 'be likely to' + infinitive or 'it is likely that' + clause.

Pitfall

It is likely raining

It is likely to rain

When used as an adjective followed by a verb, it requires the 'to' infinitive, not a participle.

Word family

NOUN

ADJECTIVE

Likely(A2)

Idioms

01. not likely

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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