I would hazard

USAGE SUMMARY

"I would hazard" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to indicate that one is taking a guess or making a prediction about something. For example, "I would hazard that the new movie will be a box office success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I would hazard a guess that our Monk's name at birth was Thelonious Monk, Junior.

The New York Times

Jack has read cover to cover, I would hazard, fewer books than I've written.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So, I would hazard that the majority of us dirty-haired slatterns are based down south.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I would hazard a guess that it wouldn't affect him at all".

The Guardian - Sport

But some things about me and, I would hazard to say, America, have not changed.

The Guardian - Opinion

But I would hazard, too, that others could take lessons from the Olympics about flexibility and openness.

Independent

I would hazard a guess that most people had never seen any form of aviation until the 20th century.

The Guardian - Money

I would hazard a guess that for disadvantaged young people living in deprived areas the impacts will be even harsher.

The Guardian

If I did, I'd be mad all day.' That, I would hazard a guess, would not be a pretty sight.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

I'd hazard that a fair few of you are too.

The Guardian

If you don't, I'd hazard that reading this novel will not convert you.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "I would hazard" with a clear statement of what you are guessing or predicting, to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "I would hazard" is acceptable in many contexts, overuse can make your writing sound hesitant. Vary your language with phrases like "I believe", "I suspect", or "in my opinion" for a more confident tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I would hazard" functions as a modal verb construction used to express a cautious or tentative opinion. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates a guess or prediction made with a degree of uncertainty. Examples from Ludwig show it introducing an opinion in news articles and other media.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I would hazard" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a guess or tentative opinion, frequently appearing in News & Media contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and adjust your language accordingly, balancing confidence and caution. Overuse can weaken your writing, so incorporate synonyms when appropriate. This phrase serves as a valuable tool for writers looking to express informed opinions with nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I would guess

Replaces "hazard" with a more common synonym, reducing the formality slightly.

I would venture to say

Adds a touch more formality and emphasis to the act of making a guess.

I would speculate

Implies a more thoughtful, but still uncertain, consideration of the facts.

I would surmise

Suggests an inference based on limited evidence, slightly more formal.

I am inclined to think

Expresses a leaning towards a particular opinion or belief.

It is my belief

States a personal conviction, possibly without concrete proof.

I'd wager

Introduces an element of risk or betting on the accuracy of the guess.

I presume

Suggests taking something for granted, often based on probability.

In my estimation

Emphasizes a personal assessment or judgment.

My hunch is

Implies a feeling or intuition, rather than a reasoned conclusion.

FAQs

How can I use "I would hazard" in a sentence?

"I would hazard" is typically followed by a clause expressing a guess or opinion. For instance, "I would hazard that the project will be completed on time."

What's a less formal alternative to "I would hazard"?

If you're aiming for a less formal tone, you might use phrases like "I guess", "I think", or "probably".

Is it appropriate to use "I would hazard" in academic writing?

While "I would hazard" is acceptable, it might be perceived as less assertive than stronger verbs like "suggest" or "conclude", depending on the field and the context.

What is the difference between "I would hazard" and "I am certain"?

"I would hazard" implies uncertainty and a degree of guessing, while "I am certain" expresses a strong conviction and lack of doubt. The choice depends on how confident you are in your statement.