The spelling of "not unlikely" might seem confusing at first, but it follows the basic rules of English phonetics. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /nɒt ʌnˈlaɪkli/. The initial consonant cluster "nt" is pronounced with a nasal stop followed by the unvoiced dental fricative /θ/. The vowel sound in "not" is the short o /ɒ/, while the stressed syllable in "unlikely" features the diphthong /aɪ/. Together, the word sounds like "naht un-LIKE-lee."
Not unlikely is a phrase used to describe a situation, event, or outcome that is quite possible or probable to occur, counteracting any presumption of unlikelihood. The term is notably used to convey a degree of uncertainty while implying more likelihood than the phrase "not likely." It indicates a higher probability of the situation happening compared to other less plausible options, yet it stops short of indicating absolute certainty or a guarantee.
The phrase examines the possibility or probability of an event occurring and suggests there are factors or indicators that make it likely or reasonably probable, though not to the extent of being a certainty. It can be understood as a way of stating that an event is possible, plausible, or feasible, acknowledging that certain conditions or circumstances increase the chances of it happening. Therefore, when something is described as "not unlikely," it signifies that although there is still a chance it may not transpire, the likelihood of it occurring is relatively high in comparison to alternative possibilities.
This phrase is often used in discussions, predictions, or assessments of practical matters, taking into account existing evidence, trends, or patterns that support the likelihood of a certain outcome. It implies that cautious consideration should be given to the potential occurrence of the event in question, as it is not to be dismissed as improbable or far-fetched.
The word "not unlikely" is a phrase rather than a single word, which means that something is probable or likely to happen.
Etymologically, the word "not" dates back to Old English as "not", derived from the Proto-Germanic "nut", ultimately originating from the Proto-Indo-European root "ne" meaning "not" or "no".
On the other hand, the word "unlikely" has its roots in Middle English, derived from the combination of the prefix "un-" and the word "likely". The prefix "un-" comes from Old English and is related to the negative particle "ne". "Likely" itself comes from Old English "gelic", which means "similar" or "comparable", and it is linked to the Proto-Germanic word "likon".