Chances are that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Chances are that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a likelihood or probability of something happening. Example: "Chances are that it will rain tomorrow, so you might want to bring an umbrella."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Chances are that eBay pulled it.

TechCrunch

Chances are that word will get around.

WikiHow

Chances are that is what woke him up.

WikiHow

The chances are that will break the strike.

The Economist

Chances are that pitch will come shortly.

The New York Times

Chances are that the carriers won't even notice it.

The New Yorker

Chances are that message won't be lost on other industries.

The New York Times

Chances are that ammonites are floating around too.

The Guardian

Chances are that a lot of other people sure have.

The New Yorker

Chances are that MacMillan will not be sufficiently healed.

The New York Times - Sports

Chances are that the universe neither treasures nor regrets us.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Chances are that", ensure the statement following it is a logical consequence or a likely outcome based on the available information. This strengthens the credibility of your assertion.

Common error

Avoid using "Chances are that" to introduce statements that are purely speculative or lack a reasonable basis. This can weaken your argument and make your writing seem less credible. Ensure the statement following "Chances are that" has some supporting evidence or logical connection to the preceding context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Chances are that" functions as an introductory expression indicating probability or likelihood. It sets the stage for a statement that is expected to be true based on available information. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for expressing likelihood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

6%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Chances are that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to introduce a statement of probability. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's correct and widely applicable in various contexts, especially in news, media, and general writing. Alternatives such as "it is likely that" or "most likely" can be used for a more formal tone, but "Chances are that" remains a versatile and acceptable choice for conveying likelihood in many situations. Remember to use it when introducing statements that have a reasonable basis to enhance credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Most likely

A simpler, more direct way to express high probability.

In all likelihood

Emphasizes the high probability of something happening.

It is likely that

Replaces "chances are" with a more formal expression of likelihood.

It seems likely that

Adds a layer of observation or deduction to the likelihood.

It is probable that

Substitutes "chances" with "probable", indicating a high degree of certainty.

The odds are that

Uses a more informal expression to indicate probability.

It is expected that

Focuses on anticipation or expectation rather than pure chance.

One would expect that

Expresses an expectation based on common sense or prior knowledge.

Presumably

Suggests an assumption based on reasonable grounds.

It stands to reason that

Indicates that something is logical or reasonable to expect.

FAQs

How do I use "Chances are that" in a sentence?

Use "Chances are that" to introduce a statement that is likely to be true or to happen, based on the current situation or available information. For example, "Chances are that it will rain later, so bring an umbrella."

What can I say instead of "Chances are that"?

You can use alternatives like "it is likely that", "in all likelihood", or "most likely" depending on the context.

Is "Chances are that" formal or informal?

"Chances are that" is generally considered to be neutral in tone. While perfectly acceptable in most contexts, you might prefer a more formal alternative like "it is probable that" in academic or highly professional writing.

What's the difference between "Chances are that" and "It is possible that"?

"Chances are that" suggests a higher degree of likelihood than "It is possible that". "Chances are that" implies that something is more probable than not, while "It is possible that" simply indicates that something could happen, even if it's unlikely.