in all likelihood
Definition
The meaning: In all likelihood means "almost certainly" or "very probably." It is used to say that something is very likely to happen or be true.
La signification : In all likelihood signifie « selon toute vraisemblance », « très probablement », ou « il est fort probable que ».
Here's an example of use: "In all likelihood, the event will be postponed due to the weather."
It is often used to express a strong probability about future, present, or past situations.
Word Analysis
French equivalents »» Selon toute vraisemblance »» Très probablement »» Selon toute probabilité Ⓐ Selon toute vraisemblance, il arrivera en retard. Ⓑ Très probablement, la réunion sera annulée. English equivalents »» Most likely »» Almost certainly »» Very probably Ⓐ In all likelihood, she will accept the offer. Ⓑ The train will, in all likelihood, be delayed.
Dialogue
Alex: "Do you think the project will finish on time?"
Jamie: "In all likelihood, yes. The team is ahead of schedule."
Alex: "That's great news!"
Etymology
Origin: The phrase in all likelihood is formed from the noun "likelihood," which means probability or chance, and dates back to Middle English. The full phrase has been used since at least the 16th century to express strong probability.
Modern Usage: Common in both formal and informal English to indicate that something is very likely.
Connotation: Neutral; simply suggests a high degree of probability.
Grammar Note: Used as an adverbial phrase, often at the beginning of a sentence: “In all likelihood, he will be late.”
Audience
In all likelihood is widely used in both spoken and written English, especially in business, academic, and everyday contexts.
When to use: Use this phrase when you want to express that something is very probable or almost certain. Example: “In all likelihood, the company will expand next year.”
Poem Extract
A Small Needful Fact [excerpt]
A small needful fact
is that Eric Garner worked
for some time for the Parks and Rec.
Horticultural Department, which means,
perhaps, that with his very large hands,
perhaps, in all likelihood,
he put gently into the earth
some plants which, most likely,
some of them, in all likelihood,
continue to grow, continue
to do what such plants do...
Poet: Eric Garner
Read the Full Poem
Extra! Extra!
For a clear explanation of in all likelihood, watch the following videos:In all likelihood - meaning & usage
Expressing uncertainty and doubt
WordReference
For more on idiomatic usage, visit the WordReference Forums for discussions, translations, and examples of "in all likelihood" in context.
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» English⇄English – Discuss and learn about words and their usage.
» English⇄French – Explore translations and linguistic nuances.
» Synonyms⇄Antonyms – Contextual variations, etc.
Common Idioms & Expressions Related to "In All Likelihood"
Most likely
Almost certain to happen.
Example: "Most likely, he will call you tomorrow."
Chances are
It is probable that.
Example: "Chances are, the meeting will run late."
Odds are
There is a strong probability.
Example: "Odds are, the package will arrive today."
There's a good chance
It is very likely.
Example: "There's a good chance she'll be promoted."
Highly likely
Very probable.
Example: "It's highly likely that it will rain this evening."
Bound to
Certain or destined to happen.
Example: "With those skills, she's bound to succeed."
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