Synonyms for

Unlikely

Verb / ʌˈnlaɪkli: / Another word for unlikely — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Not likely to happen or be true.

Synonyms & similar words

improbable likely unconvincing probable unbelievable improbable doubtful uncertain questionable unbelievable unimaginable implausible incredible remote far-fetched unconvincing unpersuasive unthinkable unexpected surprising astonishing amazing startling astounding unforeseen

Synonyms by register

Formal

improbable doubtful remote inconceivable

Informal

no way not gonna happen ain't gonna happen long shot

Literary

chimerical fantastical unreal

Antonyms

likely probable certain possible expected plausible foreseeable

Common collocations

  • highly unlikely
  • very unlikely
  • unlikely to happen
  • unlikely event
  • unlikely outcome
  • unlikely to succeed
  • unlikely to be true

Word family

noun unlikelihood
adverb unlikely

Usage note

While 'unlikely' can be used as an adverb, it is more commonly used as an adjective. The adverbial use is often considered informal or non-standard by some prescriptive grammarians.

Example sentences

  1. It is unlikely that it will rain tomorrow.
  2. It is unlikely that the cat will bark.
  3. It is unlikely that I will grow wings and fly.
  4. It is unlikely that the sun will rise in the west.
  5. It is unlikely that she will become a doctor without going to school.

Quotes

  • The impossible is often the untried. - Jim Goodwin
  • The only way of discovering the limits of the possible is to venture a little way past them into the impossible. - Arthur C. Clarke
  • The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. - Nelson Mandela

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