a likely way

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a likely way" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest a probable or reasonable method for achieving something. Example: "Taking the bus is a likely way to reach the city center during rush hour."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

They were proposed by physicist Freeman Dyson more than 50 years ago as a likely way for advanced civilizations to power their power-hungry societies.

University of California, Berkeley

The viper's bugloss mason bee is an expert traveller, because it can nest in holes in vehicles and freight, and Notton said that was a likely way it had arrived in London.

The Guardian

Analysts agree that the horse trading, and even last week's deal, is more about the parties being on political manoeuvres rather than finding a likely way out of the impasse.

The Guardian

It doesn't sound a likely way to lock in responsibility for the rest of time, and especially not when you clock that the bulk of the promised £10bn surplus in 2020 comes from a one-off boost to corporation taxes achieved by fiddling around with when the bills fall due.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rogue hackers from within Anonymous could "move massive amounts of money quickly into criminal hands before the authorities or banks can stop them," Litan says, pointing to highly coordinated "flash attacks" as a likely way to obtain funds.

Forbes

To that end, it can be said that the premise of the argument is obviously questionable, for it is not clear that the consumption of vodka is a likely way to transform one's life into an exciting cosmopolitan life (rather than one beset by, for example, alcohol-related problems).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

One last element in the story is that Ann went to art college and I think perhaps she'd vaguely thought of being a painter or an illustrator, but while she was there she got side-tracked into fashion, which was still thought of as more suitable for women, or at least as a more likely way for a woman to make a living.

The New Yorker

It struck me as both a great item to travel with and a very likely way to miss a flight.

The New York Times - Travel

But each score can be achieved in a much less likely way.

The New York Times - Arts

Here are some of the situations that could play out: The most likely way a result will be known relatively quickly is if one of Ms. Murkowski's opponents appears clearly ahead after ballots are counted on election night.

The New York Times

For instance, I would like to become a father, and the most likely way will be through adoption.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a likely way" to present a suggestion or possibility that is based on reasonable evidence or assumptions. It's effective in persuasive writing or when outlining potential solutions.

Common error

Avoid using "a likely way" when you mean a certainty. This phrase implies probability, not a guaranteed outcome. Overusing it can weaken your argument if the context requires a more assertive tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a likely way" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It identifies a potential method or approach with a reasonable probability of success. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in writing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a likely way" is a useful expression for suggesting a probable method or approach. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts. While it is more frequently found in news, scientific, and academic writing, its neutral register allows for broader application. Remember to use "a likely way" when you want to indicate a reasonable possibility, not a certainty. Consider alternatives like "a probable method" or "a reasonable approach" for slightly different shades of meaning. Avoid overstating the probability to maintain the accuracy and credibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A probable course of action

Replaces "likely way" with more formal synonyms, emphasizing the calculated probability of an action.

A plausible method

Focuses on the credibility and feasibility of the method.

A reasonable approach

Highlights the rationality and common sense behind the method.

A potential avenue

Suggests a path or route that could lead to a specific outcome.

A possible means

Emphasizes the resources or actions that could achieve a desired result.

A feasible strategy

Highlights the practicality and workability of the planned actions.

A viable option

Stresses that the proposed method is capable of succeeding or working.

A promising tactic

Suggests that the method is likely to yield positive results based on current indicators.

A good bet

Uses an informal idiom to indicate a high chance of success.

A strong candidate

Positions the method as one of the top possibilities to consider.

FAQs

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

You can use "a likely way" to suggest a probable method or approach for achieving something. For example, "Taking the train is "a likely way" to avoid traffic."

What are some alternatives to "a likely way"?

Alternatives include "a probable method", "a reasonable approach", or "a plausible method", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "a likely way" or "the only way"?

The choice depends on the context. "A likely way" suggests one of several possibilities, while "the only way" indicates that there are no other options. Using "the only way" when other options exist can undermine your credibility.

Can "a likely way" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a likely way" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider the alternatives to ensure they align with the tone and level of formality required. More formal options might include "a probable course of action" or "a potential avenue".