Unlikely
/ʌnˈlaɪkli/
Definitions
Not probable; not expected to happen or be true.
/ʌnˈlaɪkli/
Not probable or expected.
It's unlikely that I'll finish this book tonight.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend wants to win the lottery. It's *unlikely* they'll win because the chances are so small. It means something probably won't happen.
👶 For kids: Something that probably won't happen.
More Examples
The chances of finding a solution are unlikely.
The team's victory seems unlikely given their poor performance.
He is unlikely to accept your offer.
How It's Used
"It is unlikely that it will rain today."
"A default on the loan is unlikely."
"Winning the game is unlikely."
Synonyms
From Middle English *unlikeli*, from un- (not) + likely.
The word 'unlikely' has been used in English since the 14th century, initially to describe something 'not resembling' and later evolving to mean 'not probable'.
Memory tip
Think of something that has a low chance of occurring.