Be likely to means probably going to: the parcel is likely to arrive tomorrow. Unlike probably, likely is an adjective, so it needs be and to: she's likely to be late. The other pattern is it's likely that... Americans often say will likely arrive; British speakers tend to say will probably arrive.
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subject + be likely to + base verb / It is likely that + clause
- The parcel is likely to arrive tomorrow.
- A clear sign is more likely to attract attention than a crowded one.
- It is likely that the hall will be full by noon.
What changed
First versionThe workshop is likely start late.
RevisionThe workshop is likely to start late.
Probably can go right before a verb, so likely seems to work the same way. But after be likely you need to: is likely to start. With to added, the prediction is built correctly.
Possible means it could happen, likely means probably, bound to means almost certainly. About to means very soon: it's about timing, not chances. For a negative prediction, use unlikely to.
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Choose the verb form: The smaller room is likely to ___ quieter.
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be — After likely to you need the base form be. Being isn't used in this pattern.
Make a prediction about a trip, the weather or a queue, and give the reason. Use be likely to.
The morning tour is likely to sell out because it is the only one before lunch.
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