likelihood — English Dictionary

Noun

1. The probability of a specified outcome; the chance of something happening; probability; the state or degree of being probable.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   In all likelihood the meeting will be cancelled.

   The likelihood is that the inflation rate will continue to rise.

   More examples (1)

   While starting early can increase your likelihood of attaining millionaire status, the investments you choose play an equally important role.

2. The probability that some fixed outcome was generated by a random distribution with a specific parameter.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

3. Likeness, resemblance.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   There is no likelihood between pure light and black darkness, […]or between righteousness and reprobation.

4. Appearance, show, sign, expression.

   Usage

   • Archaic
   • Countable
   • Uncountable

Noun

1. the probability of a specified outcome

   Synonyms

   likeliness

   Antonyms

   unlikelihood

   Broader terms

   probability