like|ly

like|ly
like|ly «LYK lee», adjective, -li|er, -li|est, adverb.
–adj.
1. probable: »

One likely result of this heavy rain is the rising of the river.

2. to be expected: »

It is likely to be hot in August.

3. appearing to be true; believable: »

a likely story.

4. suitable: »

Is this a likely place to fish?

5. giving promise of success or excellence; promising: »

a likely boy.

–adv.
probably; in all probability: »

I shall very likely be at home all day.

[< Scandinavian (compare Old Icelandic līkligr)]
Usage Likely, apt, liable indicate possibility but not in the same way. Likely implies probability: »

It is likely to rain tonight.

Apt implies natural or habitual tendency: »

Children are apt to be noisy at play.

Liable implies risk or danger: »

Because he doesn't study, he is liable to fail.


Useful english dictionary. 2012.

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