apt to say

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apt to say" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is likely or inclined to express a particular opinion or statement. Example: "He is often apt to say that hard work leads to success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

When they win, he's apt to say they got lucky.

The New Yorker

Called "Orientalism in Europe: From Delacroix to Matisse," it seemed apt, to say the least.

The New York Times

Black respondents and Democrats were far more apt to say the act was still needed.

The New York Times

But it's also apt to say that he remained in character.

The New York Times

It's more apt to say that Beck is like Fox News' president, Roger Ailes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Women are also more apt to say they expect to watch the broadcast of the royal wedding next week.

The New York Times

He is apt to say that he has seen a similar picture but definitely not the one now being shown.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In this sense, it is probably more apt to say that pragmatism is a mind-set and a world view.

The New Yorker

When Mr. Mazzara says no he means no, though he is more apt to say, "I'll think about it".

The New York Times - Arts

But he was apt to say to those with a haughty attitude things like: "Do you know who I am?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

81% of people in a study lied about themselves during job interviews, with the more extroverted being more apt to tell untruths, say Brent Weiss and Robert S. Feldman of the University of Massachusetts.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "apt to say" to describe a recurring tendency or predictable behavior in speech. It suggests a habitual pattern rather than a one-time occurrence.

Common error

Avoid using "apt to say" when describing absolute certainties. The phrase implies a probability or likelihood, not a guaranteed outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apt to say" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating a tendency or likelihood of someone expressing something. Ludwig examples highlight its usage in describing predictable speech patterns or opinions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "apt to say" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that indicates a tendency or likelihood of someone making a particular statement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is commonly found in news media and other sources, making it a versatile option for various writing contexts. When using this phrase, remember that it suggests a habitual pattern rather than an isolated instance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apt to articulate

This phrase replaces "say" with "articulate", which implies a clearer and more detailed expression.

likely to state

Emphasizes the probability of verbalizing something, instead of the inclination.

inclined to mention

Focuses on the disposition to bring something up.

predisposed to comment

Emphasizes the speaker's tendency and readiness to offer their viewpoint.

prone to declare

Highlights a predisposition towards a formal announcement.

tends to articulate

Suggests a habitual manner of expressing oneself.

has a habit of remarking

Highlights a recurring pattern of making comments.

is given to observing

Emphasizes a thoughtful, observant quality in the speaker.

liable to assert

Implies a strong conviction and forceful expression.

wont to express

Uses a more formal and somewhat archaic tone.

FAQs

How can I use "apt to say" in a sentence?

Use "apt to say" to indicate that someone is likely to express a particular opinion or make a specific statement in certain circumstances. For instance, "He is "apt to say" that hard work is the key to success when asked about his achievements."

What are some alternatives to "apt to say"?

You can use phrases like "likely to say", "inclined to mention", or "prone to declare" as alternatives to "apt to say", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "apt to say" in formal writing?

Yes, "apt to say" is perfectly acceptable in formal writing. It's a grammatically sound phrase that can add a touch of sophistication to your expression.

What is the difference between "apt to say" and "likely to say"?

While "apt to say" and "likely to say" are often interchangeable, "apt to say" suggests a habitual or characteristic tendency, whereas "likely to say" simply indicates a higher probability of something being said.