likelihood

noun

like·li·hood ˈlī-klē-ˌhu̇d

Synonyms of likelihood next

: the chance that something will happen : probability

There's very little likelihood of that happening. [=that is very unlikely to happen]

changes that in all likelihood will be made soon [=changes that are very likely to be made soon]

… a strong likelihood that he is correct …—

T. D. Anderson

The likelihood of instability might increase because of the economic crisis.—

Fareed Zakaria

… could reduce the likelihood of a fire in their convenience store by banning smoking in their building …—

Harriet E. Jones et al.

Examples of likelihood in a Sentence

There is a strong likelihood that he will be reelected. the weatherman on TV said that the likelihood of rain today was fairly high

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Studies have shown, for example, that the likelihood of triggering tipping points in the climate system — such as the dramatic slowdown of a vital current in the Atlantic Ocean — climb more steeply after 1.5°C of warming. —

Andrew Freedman, Axios, 11 Feb. 2025 Return processes are often messy, but as successes in Iraq and Afghanistan show, coordinating repatriation can enhance the protection of displaced communities and reduce the likelihood for further displacement upon return. —

Jesse Marks, Foreign Affairs, 11 Feb. 2025 Trump's tariffs could increase home prices and mortgage rates, some experts say Bicycles Steel and aluminum make up a key component of bicycles, raising the likelihood of price increases, Handley said. —

Max Zahn, ABC News, 11 Feb. 2025 Temperatures are forecast to reach around 37 on Wednesday as the likelihood for snow continues. —

Matt Hubbard, Baltimore Sun, 9 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for likelihood