Definitions

unlikely

[uhn-lahyk-lee] / ʌnˈlaɪk li /

ADJECTIVE

not probable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

absurd implausible improbable inconceivable incredible rare remote strange unbelievable

WEAK

contrary doubtful dubious faint not likely out of the ordinary outside chance questionable slight unconvincing unheard-of unimaginable untoward

Antonyms

STRONGEST

believable common credible likely plausible possible probable reasonable regular tenable usual

WEAK

imaginable probably

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Few nations want to make coaching changes before the World Cup and those that do are unlikely to offer terms that extend beyond the tournament.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

So I think it is quite unlikely, just by consuming steak or consuming beef, that anything bad is going to happen to you.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

Warsh has been a critic of the big Fed balance sheet for years, but he is unlikely to do much about it early on.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

The yearly U.S. rate of inflation climbed to 4.2% in May, from 3.8% in the prior month, reaching the highest level since May 2023 and making a Federal Reserve rate cut unlikely anytime soon.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

Eisman had been so vocal about the inevitable doom that all sorts of unlikely people wanted to hear what he now had to say.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis

unlikely

Example Sentences

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