easy
Rain is likely this afternoon.
What does Likely mean?
Likely means probably going to happen.
Dictionary definition
Probable or expected to happen.
Example sentences
Likely in a sentence
medium
It is likely we will finish by Friday.
hard
From the clues, it is likely the character felt worried.
Writing practice
Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice likely in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.
Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Likely
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does likely mean?
The correct answer matches the meaning of likely.
Practice 2
Which word is closest in meaning to likely?
Probable is close in meaning to likely.
Practice 3
Which word is an opposite or strong contrast for likely?
Unlikely contrasts with likely.
Practice complete
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Pronunciation coach
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Likely
Voice settings
Sounds like
lyke · lee · strongest beat: lyke
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordLikely.
Partadjective, adverb.
MeaningLikely means probably going to happen.
ExampleExample: Rain is likely this afternoon.
Word breakdown
2 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- lyke · lee
- Strongest beat
- lyke
- Ending
- lee
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on lyke.
Your turn
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Synonyms
Words like Likely
Antonyms
Opposite words
unlikelyhaving a low chance
impossiblenot able to happen
Synonym practice
Want to practice likely synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "Rain is probable if the dark clouds stay," then compare close word choices. Practice likely synonyms.
Word family
Likely word family
Base word
likely
adjective
likely
Base form.
adjective
likelier
More likely.
adjective
likeliest
Most likely.
noun
likelihood
The chance that something will happen.
Related words
Explore related words
Student support
Understand Likely
Hint for students
Likely means probably going to happen.
Common mix-up
Likely is not the same as unlikely. Likely means likely means probably going to happen.
Try it in class or at home
Read this model sentence: It is likely we will finish by Friday. Clue words: will, finish, friday. Underline clue words that show why likely fits instead of unlikely. Now write one new sentence that shows likely without using the word likely. Ask: Does my sentence clearly show likely?
Teacher prompt
Ask students to explain this model sentence: "It is likely we will finish by Friday." Why does likely fit better than unlikely?
Learning activities
Practice Likely and explore more word games
Cards labelled “Practice LIKELY” keep this word in focus. Explore cards open games with other words.
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Sentence Builder
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