adverb

most likely

mohst LYKE-lee

Most likely (adverb) means Very probably; in all probability. Example: “She will most likely be back before six.”

adverb

Very probably; in all probability.

"She will most likely be back before six."

"Most likely he never got the message."

adjective

Having the highest probability of the options available.

"The most likely cause is a loose connection."

"Who is the most likely candidate for the job?"

How to Use Most likely

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishProbably, or the best bet out of several.

When to use it

Neutral. Slightly less committal than 'certainly' and slightly stronger than 'possibly'.

Memory tip

As an adverb it needs no 'the'; as an adjective before a noun it usually takes one — 'the most likely cause'.

Easily confused with

more likely → likeliest probably →

Common pairings

most likely outcome most likely cause most likely scenario the most likely explanation

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

She will _____ be back before six.

Synonyms

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probably in all likelihood doubtless likeliest most probable

Antonyms

least likely

Related Words

probably certain likely certainly presumably improbable doubtless

Rhymes for most likely

rely comely lonely timely lovely homely widely lively lately rarely barely likely

See all rhymes for most likely →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'most likely' and 'probably'?

They are close to interchangeable as adverbs, both signalling a strong but not certain expectation. 'Most likely' can also work as an adjective ranking options, which 'probably' cannot.

How likely is 'most likely'?

It is a vague quantifier rather than a number, but readers generally take it to mean a good deal better than an even chance — commonly interpreted as somewhere around 70 to 90 per cent.

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