likelihood - Master This Word

likelihood Word Meanings

• the chance of something happening
• the probability of an event
• how likely something is

likelihood Example Sentences

Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.

• There is a high likelihood of rain today.
• The likelihood of winning the game is low.
• She said there is a good likelihood he will come.
• In my town, the likelihood of snow is rare.
• We discussed the likelihood of finding new friends.

likelihood Word Etymology

likelihood is formed from 'like', meaning similar, and 'hood', indicating a state or condition. It comes from Old English, which evolved from Germanic roots. Visualize a scale balancing things that are alike on one side, and observing their chances on the other.

English Brain Route

I grip the wheel, move my hand to the dial, and push it a notch. I watch the route on the screen shift as I adjust my pace. The likelihood of reaching the target settles with each small turn I make, like a door easing open. I keep at it, holding steady, letting the moment tell me what to do next.

Real Context

Likelihood is a formal noun that describes how probable something is. It is used in everyday speech with phrases like the likelihood of rain or the likelihood that a plan will succeed, and it often sits between chance and probability in nuance. While probability can imply a precise statistic, likelihood tends to express a qualitative assessment or a planning expectation. In math contexts you may prefer probability or odds. Remember that likelihood can be increased or decreased by new information, and it can be used with adjectives like high or low. Also note that the adjective likely is related but different, and should not replace the noun likelihood in most sentences.

Usage Reminders

• Use likelihood for a qualitative estimate, not a precise percentage.
• Remember that likelihood and probability are related but not identical.
• High/low likelihood collocations are common in planning.
• Avoid using likelihood in extremely numerical contexts; prefer probability there.
• Likely is an adjective; do not confuse with the noun likelihood.

Common Misconceptions

• Likelihood is the same as chance.
• A higher likelihood always means a larger exact percentage.
• You should always use likelihood when you want to sound formal in casual talk.
• Likelihood can replace probability in all mathematical contexts.
• Likely is a noun, like likelihood.

Thinking Differences

English treats likelihood as a formal noun used for assessment and planning, with clear collocations like high/low likelihood. Learners often mix it with chance or probability, or confuse it with likely (adjective).

Learning Tips

• Learn the noun form only (not likely as a noun).
• Pair with of or that to show what is being assessed.
• Compare with probability for numbers and chance for everyday sense.
• Use high/low likelihood in planning contexts.
• Practice with statements about future events.
• Avoid translating literally from your language.

5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English

Related Listening

🔥 Advanced

🔥 Advanced

The Influence of Faith on Economic Decisions

English Learning Listening Content

2025.08.19 · 1:31 · B2

Listen Now