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 Evacuating promptly in an emergency also reduces the likelihood firefighters will have to put themselves in high-stress situations to rescue you. — Julian L. Gallegos, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 Many risk factors can increase the likelihood of a person developing dementia. — Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 27 Aug. 2026 The White House has previously downplayed the likelihood of immigration agents being deployed to polling locations, but Trump has refused to rule it out. — Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 23 Aug. 2026 Practically, Sinner’s withdrawal increases the likelihood of a Spanish remontada. — Ava Wallace, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for likelihood
Recent Examples of Synonyms for likelihood
probability
Noun
  • In one simulation, the AI initially assigned a 72% probability that a nearby vessel was simply passing through.
    — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Meanwhile, the probability of the Fed standing pat rose from nearly 36% to almost 47%.
    — , CNBC, 28 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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