Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[jasonlulu_2000]

----Could we put off the meeting?" she asked.
----"_____, "he answered politely, "this is the only day everyone is available"
A. Not likely B. Not really C. Not nearly
I cannot make a choice between A and B.

Plus, should I add a "when" between "one day" and "everyone"?

Thanks.

Jason

[2006]

Of course the answer is 'no', and "not really" is a gentle polite way of saying 'no'. "not likely" means possible but not probable.

Actually "not likely" can also mean 'no' but is a sarcastic or derisive way of saying 'no'.
Because "he answered politely,", the correct answer is B.

You don't need 'when'.

[jasonlulu_2000]

thanks.
if possible, could you give me an example of not likely in a sarcastic way?

[2006]

Someone borrowed some money from you several months ago and didn't pay you back, even though when you lent him the money he promised to pay it back the following week. Now he is again asking if you will lend him some money. You say, not likely!

[jasonlulu_2000]

Thank you very much!