a reasonable likelihood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable likelihood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the probability or chance of an event occurring in a logical or rational context. Example: "There is a reasonable likelihood that the project will be completed on time, given the current progress and resources available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The judge said it did "not have a reasonable likelihood of future violations".

The New York Times

there is a reasonable likelihood that the project will continue to meet the requirements under this section.

Cornell University

Tragically, there is a "reasonable likelihood" that they acted on the basis of a misunderstanding of that duty.

Cornell University

He said there was a "reasonable likelihood" that the afternoon fight and the evening shooting were connected.

The New York Times

Nor have we underestimated the government's strong resolve to secure the proposal in parliament and a reasonable likelihood of it being enacted.

The Guardian - Opinion

He added: "While evidence in this case is legally sufficient it is not strong enough to meet the legal burden of a reasonable likelihood of a conviction".

The Guardian

He issued a preliminary injunction barring Kangaroo Manufacturing from selling its banana costumes, declaring that Rasta Imposta had "a reasonable likelihood of success" on copyright infringement claims.

The New York Times

Applying the test for grant or denial of preliminary injunctive relief, we find plaintiffs failed to establish a reasonable likelihood of ultimate success on the merits.

Harvard University

In my view, there is a reasonable likelihood that the jury did not understand this single sentence to establish a two-step process.

Cornell University

Such a demonstration is insufficient to prove a constitutional violation under Boyde, which requires the showing of a reasonable likelihood that the jury felt so restrained.

Cornell University

Without a simple, clear-cut statement from the judge that that belief was incorrect, there was surely a reasonable likelihood that they would act on that belief.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a reasonable likelihood", ensure the context provides some basis for the assessment of probability, avoiding unfounded speculation.

Common error

Avoid using "a reasonable likelihood" when the event is highly uncertain or purely speculative. It implies a level of probability that should be supported by evidence or logical reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable likelihood" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a probability assessment, indicating that an event is considered plausible or has a credible chance of occurring.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

40%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable likelihood" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express a plausible probability of an event occurring. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and formal settings. The phrase suggests a degree of certainty that is based on some evidence or logical reasoning. While widely accepted, it's crucial to avoid overstating the certainty or using it in purely speculative situations. Alternatives like "a plausible chance" or "a fair possibility" can be considered based on the specific context. Its frequent appearance in authoritative sources like The New York Times and academic institutions underscores its reliability and widespread usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a plausible likelihood

Replaces "reasonable" with "plausible", suggesting believability or credibility.

a fair likelihood

Substitutes "reasonable" with "fair", implying a moderate or acceptable chance.

a good likelihood

Replaces "reasonable" with "good", indicating a positive or favorable chance.

a realistic likelihood

Substitutes "reasonable" with "realistic", emphasizing practicality and feasibility.

a credible likelihood

Replaces "reasonable" with "credible", suggesting that the likelihood is believable and trustworthy.

a probable likelihood

Replaces "reasonable" with "probable", indicating a high degree of certainty.

a distinct likelihood

Substitutes "reasonable" with "distinct", highlighting a noticeable or clear chance.

a significant likelihood

Replaces "reasonable" with "significant", emphasizing the importance or magnitude of the likelihood.

a strong likelihood

Substitutes "reasonable" with "strong", suggesting a powerful or convincing chance.

a conceivable likelihood

Replaces "reasonable" with "conceivable", highlighting that the likelihood is imaginable or possible.

FAQs

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

You can use "a reasonable likelihood" to describe a situation where there is a plausible chance of something happening. For example, "There is "a reasonable likelihood" that the company will expand next year due to increased profits."

What phrases are similar to "a reasonable likelihood"?

Alternatives to "a reasonable likelihood" include "a plausible chance", "a fair possibility", or "a credible probability".

Is it appropriate to use "a reasonable likelihood" in formal writing?

Yes, "a reasonable likelihood" is suitable for formal writing, especially in legal, business, or academic contexts where assessing probabilities is important. However, consider the specific audience and choose the most precise term for clarity.

What's the difference between "a reasonable likelihood" and "a reasonable doubt"?

"A reasonable likelihood" suggests a probability of something occurring, while "a reasonable doubt" is a legal standard indicating uncertainty about someone's guilt. They address different concepts related to probability and certainty.