unlikely

adjective

un·​like·​ly ˌən-ˈlī-klē 

1

: not likely : improbable

an unlikely outcome

2

: likely to fail : unpromising

an unlikely place to see much wildlife

Synonyms of unlikely

• doubtful
• dubious
• questionable
• improbable

Examples of unlikely in a Sentence

He was an unlikely candidate for the position.

A big city seems like an unlikely place to find wildlife.

I received support from an unlikely ally.

Recent Examples on the Web

After Mexico suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat to Sweden, their hopes of advancing hinged on South Korea’s team pulling off an unlikely victory over Germany. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026

An unlikely hit given its piecemeal arrangement, vocal effects and bird chirps. — Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 18 June 2026

After reading Gordon recapped his unlikely career path, as a native of Yazoo City, Mississippi, who went on to Tulane University. — Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 18 June 2026

Headed into the announcement, any chance of a legislative repeal of the death penalty appeared unlikely. — CBS News, 18 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for unlikely

• likely

Kids Definition

unlikely

adjective

un·​like·​ly ˌən-ˈlī-klē 

ˈən-

1

: not likely : improbable

an unlikely story

2

: likely to fail : unpromising

an unlikely place for fishing

unlikeliness noun