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 Without secure and stable housing, the likelihood of recidivism increases. — Lake County News-Sun, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026 The conditions with the highest likelihood of a misdiagnosis include cancers and vascular events like a heart attack and infections. — Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026 Both scenarios would have devastating consequences—dramatically transforming sea levels and ecosystems, and triggering compounding climate extremes such as higher temperatures and drought, increasing the likelihood of wildfires. — Simmone Shah, Time, 21 Oct. 2026 The likelihood of winning just comes down to which story a critical mass of voters find most impressive. — Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for likelihood
Recent Examples of Synonyms for likelihood
probability
Noun
  • However, markets may be placing too much confidence in a year-end rate hike, with the probability of a December increase priced at roughly 90%, leaving room for expectations to shift as fresh economic data emerge.
    — Jenny Lee, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026
  • However, the probability of serious adverse health effects is still considered low.
    — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 21 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 27 Oct. 2026.

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