Likely means probably going to happen or probably true. When the weather forecast says rain is likely tomorrow, meteorologists think there's a good chance it will rain. When your teacher says you'll likely finish the project by Friday, she believes you probably will, though she's not absolutely certain.

The word sits between “maybe” and “definitely.” Something likely is more than a coin flip but less than a guarantee. If dark clouds gather overhead, rain becomes likely. If you've studied hard for every test this year, you're likely to do well on the next one too.

You can also use likely to describe people or things that fit a pattern. The likely winner of a race is the fastest runner. The likely culprit who ate the last cookie might be your brother, who always does. Notice how likely relies on evidence or experience: you make predictions based on what usually happens or what makes sense given the situation.

Scientists use likely when discussing theories supported by evidence but not yet proven beyond all doubt. Detectives search for the most likely suspect. Meanwhile, something unlikely goes against the odds, like winning the lottery or finding a four-leaf clover on your first try.