adjective
more likely
mor LYKE-lee
More likely (adjective) means having a greater probability of happening or being true than something else. Example: “Rain is more likely on Thursday than on Friday.”
adjective
1
Having a greater probability of happening or being true than something else.
"Rain is more likely on Thursday than on Friday."
"A software fault is far more likely than sabotage."
adverb
1
Used to introduce a more plausible explanation, often correcting the one just given.
"He said he was busy — more likely he just forgot."
"More likely than not, the parcel is still at the depot."
How to use more likely
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIt has a better chance of being true or happening.
When to use it
Neutral; used freely in speech, journalism and technical writing.
Memory tip
'More likely' compares two things; 'most likely' picks the top one out of several or means 'probably'.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
more likely than not
far more likely
twice as likely
significantly more likely
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Rain is _____ on Thursday than on Friday.
Synonyms
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likelier
more probable
Antonyms
less likely
Rhymes for more likely
See all rhymes for more likely →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 'more likely' and 'most likely'?
'More likely' is comparative — it weighs one option against another, as in 'snow is more likely than rain'. 'Most likely' is superlative, naming the single strongest possibility, and it also works as a stand-alone way of saying 'probably'.
Is 'likelier' correct instead of 'more likely'?
Yes, 'likelier' is a legitimate comparative form and appears in edited prose. 'More likely' is far commoner and sounds more natural to most readers, especially in speech.
What is the meaning of more likely?
"more likely" (adjective) means having a greater probability of happening or being true than something else.
What is another word for more likely?
Other words for "more likely" include likelier, more probable.
