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 Trump’s move casts doubt on the likelihood of the White House imposing sanctions on Russia this month, given that a bipartisan law passed by Congress directs the administration to target the top importers of Russian oil and gas. — Michelle L. Price, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2026 As life in Gaza does not meaningfully improve and as deadly Israeli attacks continue, the likelihood of an explosion grows. — Khaled Elgindy, Foreign Affairs, 8 Oct. 2026 Right from the outset, the winners recognize their overwhelming advantage and their equally overwhelming likelihood to win. — James Coffin, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026 Neutered kittens, more often seen in shelters where neutering happens at a younger age, also had a markedly higher likelihood of infection, which may be due to exposure to other rescue animals. — ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for likelihood
Recent Examples of Synonyms for likelihood
probability
Noun
  • Simulations accounting for a 4–6-kilometer-wide grounding zone suggest a 60-percent probability that the glacier will become unpinned from the Mouginot Ridge by the end of the century.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Farther east, including the I-35 corridor and the metroplex, rain chances will generally range from 30–50%, with lower probabilities toward our southeastern counties.
    — Michael Autovino, CBS News, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of probability

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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 20 Oct. 2026.

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