Having a high probability of occurring or being true
Examples:
It is likely to rain today.She is the most likely to win the game.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Apt
/æpt/
Quick to learn or understand; suitable or likely to do something
Examples:
The teacher chose an apt remark to motivate the students.His aptitude for learning new languages was absolutely apt.An apt metaphor can illuminate complex scientific concepts.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
Likely is often used to indicate probability, while apt suggests appropriateness or tendency.
If something is likely, it has a high chance of happening or being true.
When someone is apt, they are usually quick to learn or inclined in a certain way.
Remember, likely deals with likelihood, but apt is closer to aptitude.
Likely can describe future occurrences; apt is more about personal characteristics.