Dictionary
English - Korean

Likely

ˈlaɪkli
Extremely common
400 - 500
400 - 500
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.

아마도 (likely to happen), 그럴듯한 (plausible or reasonable), 가능성 있는 (having potential or capability), 그럴듯하게 보이는 (appearing credible or trustworthy)

Likely meanings in Korean

아마도 (likely to happen)

Example:
It is likely to rain tomorrow.
내일 비가 올 가능성이 높습니다.
She is likely to win the competition.
그녀는 대회에서 이길 가능성이 높습니다.
Usage: formalContext: Used in predictions or expectations based on evidence.
Note: Often used when discussing probabilities or expectations in various contexts.

그럴듯한 (plausible or reasonable)

Example:
He gave a likely explanation for his absence.
그는 그의 결석에 대해 그럴듯한 설명을 했습니다.
It's a likely story, but I don't believe it.
그건 그럴듯한 이야기지만, 나는 믿지 않습니다.
Usage: formal/informalContext: Used when assessing the believability of a statement or story.
Note: Can imply skepticism or doubt regarding the truthfulness of the explanation.

가능성 있는 (having potential or capability)

Example:
He is a likely candidate for the job.
그는 그 직업에 적합한 후보입니다.
She is a likely choice for the project leader.
그녀는 프로젝트 리더로 적합한 선택입니다.
Usage: formalContext: Used in contexts such as job applications, selections, or nominations.
Note: Indicates a strong suitability or chance of selection.

그럴듯하게 보이는 (appearing credible or trustworthy)

Example:
His argument sounds likely.
그의 주장은 그럴듯하게 들린다.
The evidence presented was likely enough to convince the jury.
제시된 증거는 배심원을 설득하기에 충분히 그럴듯했다.
Usage: formal/informalContext: Used in discussions about the credibility of arguments or claims.
Note: Can be used in both formal debates and casual conversations.

Likely's synonyms

probable

Probable means likely to happen or be true.
Example: It is probable that it will rain tomorrow.
Note: Probable is often used in more formal contexts than likely.

possible

Possible means capable of happening or being true.
Example: It is possible that she will arrive late.
Note: Possible implies that something could happen but is not certain, whereas likely suggests a higher degree of certainty.

plausible

Plausible means seeming reasonable or probable.
Example: The explanation seems plausible based on the evidence.
Note: Plausible is used to describe something that appears to be true or valid based on available information, similar to likely but with a focus on reasonableness.

Likely expressions, common phrases

Most likely

This phrase indicates a high probability or strong possibility of something happening.
Example: She will most likely be late for the meeting.
Note: The addition of 'most' emphasizes a higher likelihood compared to just 'likely.'

Likely story

This phrase is used sarcastically to express disbelief or skepticism about someone's explanation or excuse.
Example: He said he didn't eat the last cookie, but 'likely story' - his crumbs are all over the table.
Note: The phrase 'likely story' is a complete expression with a specific sarcastic connotation, different from the neutral term 'likely.'

Highly likely

This phrase suggests a very strong possibility or probability of something happening.
Example: It is highly likely that the company will announce a merger soon.
Note: Similar to 'most likely,' 'highly likely' emphasizes a very high likelihood compared to just 'likely.'

Likely outcome

This phrase refers to the expected or probable result of a situation or event.
Example: Based on the current situation, a decrease in sales is the likely outcome.
Note: The term 'outcome' specifies the result, making the phrase more focused on the end result than just 'likely.'

Unlikely

This word suggests a low probability or a small chance of something happening.
Example: It is unlikely that it will rain tomorrow.
Note: While 'unlikely' is the opposite of 'likely,' it specifically conveys improbability rather than just neutrality.

Likely lads

This phrase refers to young men who are perceived as having potential or expected to achieve success.
Example: The likely lads at the office always come up with creative solutions to problems.
Note: The term 'likely lads' is a colloquial expression used to describe a specific group, different from the general sense of 'likely.'

More likely than not

This phrase indicates a probability greater than 50%, suggesting a strong possibility of something happening.
Example: More likely than not, she will accept the job offer.
Note: Adding 'more likely than not' emphasizes a higher probability than just 'likely,' indicating a stronger likelihood.

Likely everyday (slang) expressions

Likely as not

This phrase is used to indicate something that is probable or expected to happen, with emphasis on the likelihood.
Example: He'll likely as not show up late again.
Note: The addition of 'as not' adds a casual and conversational tone to the phrase.

Probably

Informal term similar to 'likely', indicating a high probability or likelihood of something happening.
Example: I'll probably see you tomorrow at the party.
Note: It is a more casual and commonly used term in everyday speech.

Chances are

Expresses the probability or likelihood of a particular outcome occurring.
Example: Chances are, she'll agree to help us with the project.
Note: It presents a more speculative view compared to a definite statement of likelihood.

Odds are

Implies a high probability or likelihood of something happening, particularly in the context of negative outcomes.
Example: Odds are, he won't be able to make it to the meeting.
Note: It emphasizes the probability aspect, especially in situations with potential obstacles or negative results.

Bets are

Suggests a strong belief or certainty about a likely event or outcome.
Example: Bets are, she forgot about the appointment.
Note: The use of 'bets are' conveys a sense of confidence or conviction in the likelihood of the stated event.

In all likelihood

Indicates a high degree of probability or certainty about a particular outcome.
Example: In all likelihood, they will choose the red option.
Note: It emphasizes a high level of confidence in the prediction compared to a more general statement of likelihood.

Ten to one

Suggests a high likelihood of a particular outcome, often with an emphasis on the odds.
Example: Ten to one, it will rain this weekend.
Note: This expression typically involves numerical odds to indicate a strong probability rather than a qualitative assessment of likelihood.

Likely - Examples

It is likely that it will rain tomorrow.
내일 비가 올 가능성이 높습니다.
The likely outcome of the election is still uncertain.
선거의 가능성 있는 결과는 여전히 불확실합니다.
Based on the evidence, it is likely that he committed the crime.
증거에 따르면, 그가 범죄를 저질렀을 가능성이 높습니다.

Likely grammar

Likely - Adverb (Adverb) / Adverb (Adverb)
Lemma: likely
Conjugations
Adjective, comparative (Adjective, comparative): likelier
Adjective, superlative (Adjective, superlative): likeliest
Adjective (Adjective): likely
Adverb (Adverb): likely
Syllables, Separation and Stress
likely Contains 2 syllables: like • ly
Phonetic transcription: ˈlī-klē
like ly , ˈlī klē (The red syllable is stressed)

Likely - Importance and usage frequency

The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
likely: 400 - 500 (Extremely common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
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