21 Probability with Likely
Adverbs
Likely is an adjective used with a similar meaning to probable. We use it in the Affirmative form to express probability and in the Negative form to express improbability.
Adjective Likely is used to express something is probable. Sentences with Likely usually have these structures:
- Affirmative: Likely + verb;
- Negative: Unlikely + verb.
- I will most likely fall ill, I am wearing thin clothes.
- Is it likely that you will cry when you see him?
- We will likely get angry when we see him.
- You will unlikely lose weight, you are eating too much.
- She will unlikely be bored at this party.
- It is unlikely we will fall asleep.
We can use Likely to express probability and in the negative form to express improbability. In this context Likely means probably and possible.
Likely is used to express probability, it has a similar meaning to probable and possible. When Likely is used in Affirmative form, it suggests probability, whereas in the Negative, it suggests improbability.
- Affirmative: Likely + verb (e.g. She will likely lose weight.);
- Negative: Unlikely + verb (e.g. She will unlikely lose weight.).
For example:
— “She will likely lose weight.” = She probably will lose weight.
— “She will unlikely lose weight.” = She probably won’t lose weight.
Let’s revise this content within the [Form] section. Take a look at the [Example] section that shows its use within a context.