Dictionary
Thesaurus
Encyclopedia
Translator
Web
Related Searches
Synonyms
Nearby Words

likely

 - 3 dictionary results

like⋅ly

  [lahyk-lee] adjective, -li⋅er, -li⋅est, adverb
Use likely in a Sentence
–adjective
1. probably or apparently destined (usually fol. by an infinitive): something not likely to happen.
2. seeming like truth, fact, or certainty; reasonably to be believed or expected; believable: a likely story.
3. seeming to fulfill requirements or expectations; apparently suitable: a likely place for a restaurant.
4. showing promise of achievement or excellence; promising: a fine, likely young man.
–adverb
5. probably: We will likely stay home this evening.
Origin:
1250–1300; ME likli < ON līkligr. See like1, -ly

Synonyms:
3. appropriate.

Usage note:
Likely in the senses “probably destined” and “probably” is often preceded by a qualifying word like very, more, or quite: The board is very likely to turn down the request. The new system will quite likely increase profits. However, despite statements to the contrary in some usage guides, likely in these senses is standard without such a qualifier in all varieties of English: It will likely be a bitter debate. The shipment will likely arrive on Thursday. See also apt, liable.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To likely
like·ly   (līk'lē)   
adj.   like·li·er, like·li·est

  1. Possessing or displaying the qualities or characteristics that make something probable: They are likely to become angry with him.

  2. Within the realm of credibility; plausible: not a very likely excuse.

  3. Apparently appropriate or suitable: There were several likely candidates for the job.

  4. Apt to achieve success or yield a desired outcome; promising: a likely topic for investigation.

  5. Attractive; pleasant: found a likely spot under a shady tree for the picnic.

adv.   Usage Problem
Probably.

[Middle English likly, from Old English gelīclīc (from gelīc, similar) and from Old Norse līkligr (from līkr, similar); see līk- in Indo-European roots.]
Usage Note: Used as an adverb likely is most commonly preceded by a modifier such as very or quite: He will quite likely require some help with his classes. But the unmodified use of likely is common enough in educated writing, and though it might be better avoided in highly formal style, it should not be regarded as incorrect: They'll likely buy a new car this year. See Usage Note at liable.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
Cite This Source
Word Origin & History

likely 
c.1300, perhaps from O.N. likligr "likely," from likr "like" (adj.). O.E. had cognate geliclic. Meaning "having the appearance of being strong and capable" is from 1454, though now mostly confined to Amer.Eng. Sense of "good-looking" is from 1470. Meaning "probably" is attested from c.1380, now principally in Amer.Eng.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
Cite This Source
Search another word or see likely on Thesaurus | Reference
FacebookTwitterFollow us:
Partner Sites:
Ask AnswersEviteExpediaHotelsHotwireLife123LiveDailyMy Way