We use 'likely' to say something will probably happen. It is used when we think there is a good chance of something.
It is likely to rain today.
She is likely to come soon.
'Likely' can describe a person or thing that has a good chance to do well or be chosen. It shows something is suitable or expected to succeed.
She is a likely candidate to win.
This is a likely place for the event.
As an adverb, 'likely' means 'probably'. It is used to say that something will probably happen or be true.
He will likely arrive late.
It will likely rain tomorrow.
In British informal English, 'likely' can be a noun meaning a person or thing that may be chosen or win.
She is the likely for the prize.
They found a likely for the job.
Sometimes 'likely' describes a person’s behavior that shows confidence or that something is expected. It can mean they seem sure or ready.
He gave a likely answer at once.
She looked likely to help us.
In older or literary English, 'likely' can mean something is suitable or right for a particular purpose or situation, like proper or fitting.
He chose a likely time for the meeting.
They found a likely place to rest.
