# likely

/ˈɫaɪkɫi/ (US) · /lˈaɪkli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/likely
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. probable

adjective · CEFR A2

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

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Often used in the patterns 'it is likely that...' or 'subject + be + likely + to-infinitive'.

### 2. suitable or promising

adjective · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

### 3. believable

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

seeming like it could be true.

For teachers: 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.

### 4. probably

adverb · CEFR B1 · American English

used to say that something will probably happen.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: In British English, this adverbial use usually requires a qualifier like 'very' or 'most', whereas in American English it is often used alone.

## Examples

- It is likely to rain this afternoon.
- The most likely cause of the engine failure was a lack of regular maintenance.
- While several theories exist, the most likely explanation for the sudden shift in consumer behavior is the recent increase in interest rates.

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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.