UNLIKELY Meaning and
Definition
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Unlikely is an adjective that describes something that has a small probability or is improbable to happen, occur, or be true. It refers to a situation, event, outcome, or person that is not expected or anticipated based on logical or reasonable assumptions. Unlikely suggests that the chances of a particular occurrence are remote, improbable, or highly doubtful.
When describing a person as unlikely, it implies that they possess traits, abilities, or characteristics that are unexpected or atypical. It suggests that the person's actions, behavior, or qualities are not in line with what is commonly seen or predicted, making them unique or unconventional in their individuality.
In relation to situations or events, unlikely indicates that the likelihood of something happening is small or rare, putting it in contrast with more plausible or probable alternatives. It suggests that the situation or event is not the natural or anticipated outcome, often implying a level of surprise, astonishment, or disbelief.
Used in a sentence, one might say, "It is highly unlikely to rain in the desert," meaning that the chances of precipitation occurring in such a dry environment are minimal. Overall, unlikely presents the idea of something being improbable, unexpected, or inadequately fitting within commonly held expectations or assumptions.
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• Improbable; such as cannot be reasonably expected.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for UNLIKELY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for UNLIKELY
Etymology of UNLIKELY
The word "unlikely" originated from the Old English term "unlīc", which can be broken down into two parts: "un", meaning "not", and "līc", meaning "like". The combination of these elements gives "unlikely" its meaning of something that is not likely or improbable.
Idioms with the word UNLIKELY
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in the unlikely event of sth
The idiom "in the unlikely event of something" refers to a situation that is considered highly improbable or unexpected. It is used to convey that the mentioned event or circumstance is not likely to happen or occur.
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in the unlikely event
The idiom "in the unlikely event" is used to refer to a situation or occurrence that is deemed improbable, unexpected, or highly unlikely to happen. It suggests that the likelihood of such an event taking place is very slim or remote.
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in the unlikely event of
The idiom "in the unlikely event of" refers to a situation or occurrence that is highly improbable or not expected to happen. It is used to express a condition that is rare or uncommon, often in reference to a possible negative outcome or scenario.
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in the unlikely event (that) (something) happens
The idiom "in the unlikely event (that) (something) happens" is used to express a situation or outcome that is highly improbable, indicating that it is not expected to occur. It is often used as a conditional phrase to introduce a hypothetical scenario that is not likely to take place.
Similar spelling words for UNLIKELY
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