likelihood
noun
like·li·hood
ˈlī-klē-ˌhu̇d 
: 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
T. D. AndersonThe likelihood of instability might increase because of the economic crisis.—Fareed Zakaria
Fareed Zakaria… could reduce the likelihood of a fire in their convenience store by banning smoking in their building …—Harriet E. Jones et al.
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
It will be watched closely, particularly given the significant legal issues involved and the high likelihood that additional univeristy investigations will be launched.
—Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025
The higher likelihood is that Dart still will be available.
—Mike Defabo, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025
Choosing one that's too large can create excess moisture and increase the likelihood of dust mites and mold.215
Maintenance and Care of Humidifiers
Proper care and maintenance of a humidifier keep it working safely and effectively.
—Lindsay Curtis, Health, 11 Apr. 2025
Plus, experts added, the extra costs for U.S. shoppers and a general sense of policy uncertainty increases the likelihood of an economic downturn.
—Max Zahn, ABC News, 10 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for likelihood
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Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025
The higher likelihood is that Dart still will be available.
—Mike Defabo, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025
Choosing one that's too large can create excess moisture and increase the likelihood of dust mites and mold.215
Maintenance and Care of Humidifiers
Proper care and maintenance of a humidifier keep it working safely and effectively.
—Lindsay Curtis, Health, 11 Apr. 2025
Plus, experts added, the extra costs for U.S. shoppers and a general sense of policy uncertainty increases the likelihood of an economic downturn.
—Max Zahn, ABC News, 10 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for likelihood
Cite this Entry
“Likelihood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/likelihood. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.
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likelihood
noun
like·li·hood
ˈlī-klē-ˌhu̇d
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