a greater likelihood

USAGE SUMMARY

"a greater likelihood" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which one outcome is more likely than another. For example: "Given the evidence, there is a greater likelihood that the defendant is guilty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But, to some degree, it likely also reflects a greater likelihood of an initial wrongful conviction.

The New Yorker

This pressure creates a greater likelihood of convicting the wrong person.

The New Yorker

"There's a greater likelihood that many apartments were sold for more than they're worth today.

The New York Times

But, to some degree, it likely also reflects a greater likelihood of an initial wrongful convic­tion".

The Guardian

Other problems associated with excessive television viewing are poor sleep quality and a greater likelihood of taking up smoking.

The New York Times - Health

We believe that there's a greater likelihood, given the underlying allegations, that he would get a fairer trial there".

The New York Times

If the stock resumes trading, there is a greater likelihood that banks will lend to the company.

The New York Times

However, there is a greater likelihood that these substances could be susceptible to a credible non-doping explanation".

The Guardian - Sport

Higher levels of gamma radiation were associated with a greater likelihood of children developing leukaemia.

Independent

The symptoms resemble those of a cerebral abscess, but there is a greater likelihood of seizures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The presence of plaques with inflammatory components associates with a greater likelihood of future cardiovascular events.

Cardiovascular Revascularization Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context. While "a greater likelihood" is generally suitable, more specific terms like "probability", "chance", or "potential" might be more appropriate depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a greater likelihood" as a guaranteed outcome. It indicates a higher probability, not a certainty. Use qualifying language to reflect the inherent uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater likelihood" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. It is used to denote an increased probability or chance of a specific event or outcome. Ludwig's AI confirms the correct usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a greater likelihood" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to indicate an increased probability or chance. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's versatile and applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and professional domains. While alternatives like ""a better chance"" or ""a higher probability"" exist, "a greater likelihood" holds its own due to its relative formality and analytical tone. When using this phrase, remember to provide context and avoid overstating the certainty of the outcome. With its widespread acceptance and consistent usage, mastering "a greater likelihood" will strengthen your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a greater possibility

Direct synonym, simply replacing 'likelihood' with 'possibility'.

a higher probability

Emphasizes the mathematical or statistical aspect of the likelihood.

a better chance

Offers a more informal way to express an increased possibility.

an increased probability

Focuses on the increase in probability rather than just the existence of a higher likelihood.

a more significant chance

Highlights the importance or impact of the increased possibility.

a heightened possibility

Suggests that the possibility is more intense or noticeable.

an elevated chance

Similar to 'heightened possibility', indicating a raised or increased chance.

a larger possibility

Focuses on the size or extent of the possibility.

a higher potential

Shifts the focus to the potential for something to happen, rather than the likelihood.

a more realistic prospect

Indicates that the possibility is not just likely, but also grounded in reality.

FAQs

How can I use "a greater likelihood" in a sentence?

You can use "a greater likelihood" to indicate that one outcome is more probable than another. For instance, "Due to the improved weather conditions, there is "a greater likelihood" of a successful harvest this year."

What are some alternatives to "a greater likelihood"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a better chance", "a higher probability", or "a greater possibility" to express a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "an increased likelihood" instead of "a greater likelihood"?

Yes, "an increased likelihood" is a grammatically correct and semantically similar alternative. Both phrases are widely accepted and understood, although ""a greater likelihood"" might sound slightly more natural in some contexts.

What is the difference between "a greater likelihood" and "a greater chance"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, ""a greater likelihood"" tends to be used in more formal or analytical contexts, while "a greater chance" is more common in everyday language. They are largely interchangeable, but context matters.