From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishlikelihoodlike‧li‧hood /ˈlaɪklihʊd/ ●●○ noun [singular, uncountable] 1 PROBABLYthe degree to which something can reasonably be expected to happen SYN probabilitylikelihood of Using a seatbelt will reduce the likelihood of serious injury in a car accident.little/lower/high/greater etc likelihood There was very little likelihood of her getting the job.likelihood (that) They must face the likelihood that the newspaper might go bankrupt.2 → in all likelihood
Examples from the Corpus
likelihood• Studies have shown that there is a greater likelihood of teenagers having car accidents.• Impacts on Earth differ from those on Mars in that terrestrial impacts have a high likelihood of encountering an ocean.• If so, there is little likelihood that it will ever be known to us.• There is little likelihood that the number of college places will go up this year.• With globalisation still in its infancy, the likelihood of such crises recurring is high.• As you get older, the likelihood of illness increases.• It is argued that this is a significant factor in reducing the likelihood of girls joining delinquent groups.• The likelihood of food riots this winter will increase as shortages spread.• The likelihood of living alone is greatest among the most elderly, particularly for women.little/lower/high/greater etc likelihood• The decision to keep it at 23 means fewer fixtures, less money and a greater likelihood of further clubs folding.• The active, sensation-seeking child simply has a greater likelihood of such a pattern.• Impacts on Earth differ from those on Mars in that terrestrial impacts have a high likelihood of encountering an ocean.• So the extension of insurance provision has led to a greater likelihood of the reporting of many crimes.• If so, there is little likelihood that it will ever be known to us.• There is little likelihood that cereals played a minor role in the economy.• If she left early each morning and came home late at night there was very little likelihood of her meeting Leo.• And at sea there was little likelihood that anyone would come to my rescue. 