Likely describes something expected to happen or considered probable.
The idea
Say likely to be late, it is likely that the shop will close or a likely outcome. Compare with more likely than and use unlikely for a low probability.
Examples
- The bus is likely to be late.
- Rain is likely this evening.
- It is likely that the shop will close early.
- She is unlikely to agree.
- This is a likely outcome, not a certainty.
- The second option is more likely than the first.
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Watch out
Likely does not mean certain; the actual evidence and context determine how strong the prediction is.
Try it yourself
Choose the infinitive after likely. The bus is likely ___ late. (to be / be)
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to be
To be follows likely before the action or state.
Choose the adjective for a low probability. Her agreement has a low probability; she is ___ to agree. (unlikely / likely)
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unlikely
Unlikely expresses a low probability.
Choose the comparative for two options. The second option is ___ than the first. (more likely / most likely)
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more likely
More likely compares two possibilities.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the infinitive after likely. The bus is likely ___ late. (to be / be)
Choose the adjective for a low probability. Her agreement has a low probability; she is ___ to agree. (unlikely / likely)
Choose the comparative for two options. The second option is ___ than the first. (more likely / most likely)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe a likely outcome and explain why it is not certain.