What you'll learn
By the end of this lesson, you'll be able to use "likely to" to express probability and expectation.
When do I use it?
"Likely to" says something is probable but not certain. It is a common and polite hedge:
- "The meeting is likely to end early."
- "She is unlikely to accept the offer."
- "Prices are likely to rise next year."
Use "unlikely to" for low probability. The pattern works with will too: "It will likely rain" / "It is likely that it will rain".
How do I form it?
subject + is/are + likely/unlikely + to + verb It is likely + that + clause
- He is likely to be promoted soon.
- The flight is unlikely to be delayed.
- It is likely that demand will grow.
- They are likely to need more staff.
Common mistakes for Spanish speakers
Spanish "es probable que" needs the subjunctive and a clause, so speakers write "it is likely that it rains" or "he is likely that he comes". Use the infinitive instead: "he is likely to come". Also, "probablemente" as an adverb is "probably", not "probablely". And do not mix "likely" with "probably" in the same spot: "he is probably likely to come" is redundant.
is/are likely to + verb. For low probability: unlikely to + verb.
Practice
Multiple Choice
C1Which sentence is correct?
Fill in the Blank
C1The bus is unlikely arrive on time.
Hint: unlikely + to + base verb.
Find the Error
C1Sentence Transformation
C1Task: Rewrite with 'is likely to'
Hint: subject + is likely to + base verb.
Practice Speaking
Apply what you've learned in a real conversation with AI feedback.
Level: C1