likelihood

noun

ˈlī-klē-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce likelihood (audio)
Definition of likelihoodnext
as in probability
the quality or state of being likely to occur the weatherman on TV said that the likelihood of rain today was fairly high

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of likelihood Prosecutors determined there was not a reasonable likelihood of conviction on any criminal charge. — Ruby Grisin, Louisville Courier Journal, 8 Aug. 2026 Visibility wasn’t exceptional, but neither was the likelihood of accidentally assaulting an oncoming driver’s eyes. — Matthew MacConnell, ArsTechnica, 3 Aug. 2026 The 29-year-old Skubal is set to hit free agency after this season, so the Tigers — who are 53-58 and 2½ games out of the last American League wild-card spot — faced the likelihood of losing him in free agency for no return. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026 That can increase the likelihood and progression of a variety of chronic illnesses, Holt-Lundstad said. — Taylor Seely, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for likelihood
Recent Examples of Synonyms for likelihood
probability
Noun
  • The defendants also argue that Banks cannot show a probability of prevailing on her state law claims.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • The probability of selecting 18 lawyers and none who are Jewish is a chance of roughly 1 in 9,840.
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of probability

Browse Nearby Words

like gangbusters
likelihood
likely
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Cite this Entry

“Likelihood.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/likelihood. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on likelihood

Nglish: Translation of likelihood for Spanish Speakers

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