Be likely to: express probability

The idea

Use be likely to followed by a base verb, or it is likely that followed by a clause. Change be to agree with the subject and tense.

Examples

• The train is likely to arrive late.
• Mina is likely to enjoy the exhibition.
• It is likely that the shop will close early.
• We are unlikely to finish before lunch.
• The children are likely to ask questions.
• Is it likely that the rain will stop tonight?

Watch out

Do not say likely arrive: include to before the base verb. Unlikely means not probable.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. The package is likely ___ tomorrow. (to arrive / arriving)

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   to arrive

   to arrive completes the infinitive after likely.

2. Choose the correct option. It is likely ___ the meeting will start late. (that / to)

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   that

   that introduces the clause about the meeting.

3. Choose the correct option. The roads are unlikely ___ icy today. (to be / being)

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   to be

   to be follows unlikely and describes the roads.

Use it today

Write one prediction about a person and one using it is likely that.