I likely can

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I likely can" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a possibility or likelihood of being able to do something. Example: "I haven't tried it yet, but I likely can finish the project by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Apple would need a download component to supplement its portable devices, but it likely can and will be done.

TechCrunch

Administrators — the grandchildren, most likely — can create and send monthly photo calendars and manage the online mail filter.

The New York Times - Tech

Karnik says sapwood likely can filter most types of bacteria, the smallest of which measure about 200 nanometers.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

These studies highlight the critical parts and parameters that most likely can have an impact on downtime.

Fusion Engineering and Design

Khost has two security forces, and while they are sometimes overly busy shooting at each other, they most likely can be counted on to oppose Mr. Zadran.

The New York Times

Soil testing is easily done, there are safe methods for reusing topsoil to protect homeowners, and the costs likely can be absorbed in many deals.

The New York Times

Mr. Bush likely can claim credit for any energy legislation that makes it through Congress -- after all, he put the issue on the public agenda.

The New York Times

Unless consumer confusion likely can be shown from one's use of another's mark, there is no infringement under the Lanham Act.

Harvard University

These days, if a device can be turned on, it most likely can be connected to the internet.

Forbes

The formation of well-defined TiO2 nanorods most likely can be explained by the prolonged aging at elevated temperature.

Nanoscale Research Letters

And you likely can out-smart a hacker merely by giving a little thought to your password.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I likely can" to express a moderate degree of confidence in your ability to do something, especially when you want to avoid sounding overly assertive or uncertain.

Common error

Avoid using "I likely can" when you are almost certain of your ability to perform a task. In such cases, a more confident phrase like "I definitely can" or "I will" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I likely can" functions as an expression of potential ability or possibility. It combines a personal pronoun with an adverb of probability and a modal verb indicating capacity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I likely can" expresses a moderate degree of confidence in one's ability to do something. It is grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig, and suitable for various contexts, though more commonly found in news, academic and scientific writing. It is a useful way to indicate possibility without overstating certainty. Consider alternatives such as "I probably can" or "I might be able to" to adjust the level of confidence conveyed. When you are certain about your ability to do something or strongly anticipate doing it, avoid using the term and use phrases that indicate a higher level of confidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I probably can

Replaces "likely" with "probably", indicating a slightly higher degree of certainty.

I might be able to

Uses "might be able to" to express possibility, suggesting a slightly lower degree of certainty than "likely".

I could likely

Inverts the order of "likely" and "can", maintaining a similar meaning with a slightly different emphasis.

I am likely able to

Rephrases the modal verb "can" with "am able to", keeping the sense of possibility indicated by "likely".

It's probable that I can

Changes the structure to start with "It's probable", emphasizing the probability of the speaker's ability.

Chances are I can

Uses "chances are" to indicate likelihood, offering a more colloquial alternative.

I am inclined to think I can

Expresses a leaning towards believing in one's ability, adding a layer of personal inclination.

I expect I can

Indicates an expectation of being able to do something, suggesting a reasonable level of confidence.

I anticipate being able to

Uses "anticipate being able to" to convey expectation, adding a more formal tone.

I have a good chance of being able to

Emphasizes the existence of a good opportunity or possibility of being able to do something.

FAQs

What does "I likely can" mean?

The phrase "I likely can" expresses that you believe you have a good chance of being able to do something. It indicates a moderate level of confidence but leaves room for uncertainty.

What can I say instead of "I likely can"?

You can use alternatives like "I probably can", "I might be able to", or "I could likely" depending on the context and the level of certainty you want to convey.

Is "I likely can" formal or informal?

"I likely can" is relatively neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, it is generally more common in written communication or more considered speech.

How do I use "I likely can" in a sentence?

You can use "I likely can" when responding to a request or indicating your ability to perform a task. For example, "If you need help with that, "I likely can" assist you."