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

Journey in Satchidananda became one of the unlikely inspirations for this aesthetic, which, through labels like Creed Taylor’s CTI and Bob Thiele’s Flying Dutchman, in turn spawned an array of related new genres—smooth jazz, soft jazz, fusion. — Ian Penman, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026

According to the committee’s analysis, released Friday, California could save millions of dollars if lawmakers approve AB 1729, and Newsom signs it into law — the latter of which seems unlikely. — Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 4 Aug. 2026

When Congress returns in the fall, Bambysheva writes members are likely to be kept busy with must-pass legislation dealing with funding and national security—and are also unlikely to vote on anything controversial before November’s midterm election. — Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

The political winds have shifted dramatically since the Washington Commanders and Cleveland Guardians changed their names and logos, and what once seemed inevitable now seems unlikely. — Scott Powers, New York Times, 4 Aug. 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