are most likely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'are most likely' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase when making conclusions based on evidence, such as in the following example: Based on the data, these trends are most likely the result of changes in consumer behavior.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are most likely to rebloom.

The New York Times

He added, "They are most likely permanent".

The New York Times - Sports

Regional universities are most likely to struggle.

The Guardian

There are, most likely, too many nationwide.

The New York Times

More are most likely to follow.

The New York Times - Sports

Muslims are most likely to actively practise their religion (59%).

The Guardian

The Gators are most likely bound for the Gator Bowl.

The New York Times - Sports

Many other players are most likely doing it as well.

The New York Times - Sports

House fires are most likely to begin in the kitchen.

The New York Times

Ask yourself when you are most likely to keep one.

The Guardian

Many of them are most likely doing so alone.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are most likely", ensure that the statement is supported by evidence or logical reasoning. Avoid using it for mere speculation.

Common error

Avoid using "are most likely" when the outcome is highly uncertain or based on limited information. Instead, consider using phrases like "may" or "could" to reflect the level of uncertainty more accurately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are most likely" functions as an evaluative expression, qualifying a statement with a high degree of probability. This is validated by Ludwig AI, indicating its grammatical correctness and usability. It indicates that something is very probable based on available evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are most likely" is a versatile and commonly used expression to convey a high degree of probability or expectation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general writing. While useful for expressing reasoned conclusions, it's essential to avoid overstating certainty and ensure that statements are supported by evidence. Consider alternatives such as "are probably" or "are expected to" for slight variations in tone or emphasis. This phrase is generally neutral and used to signal probability, but its effectiveness depends on the strength of the supporting information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are probably

Replaces "most likely" with a more common term that indicates a high degree of probability but with a slightly less formal tone.

will likely

Uses "will" to express a future expectation, while retaining the sense of probability.

are expected to

Shifts from likelihood to expectation, implying a basis in prediction or planning.

are prone to

Suggests a tendency or predisposition towards something, rather than a general likelihood.

are reasonably expected to

Adds a degree of justification to the expectation, implying a rational basis.

are anticipated to

Suggests a more formal expectation, often used in business or scientific contexts.

are apt to

Indicates a natural tendency or inclination, often used in more formal contexts.

are inclined to

Similar to "apt to", but emphasizes a leaning or preference.

are possibly

Expresses a lower degree of certainty than "most likely", indicating a possibility rather than a probability.

are plausibly

Highlights the believability or credibility of a scenario, indicating it is reasonable to consider.

FAQs

How can I use "are most likely" in a sentence?

Use "are most likely" to express a strong probability based on available evidence. For example, "Given the current economic climate, job losses "are most likely slowing"".

What phrases can I use instead of "are most likely"?

Alternatives include "are probably", "are expected to", or "will likely", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "are most likely" or "are likely"?

"Are most likely" suggests a higher degree of probability than "are likely". Choose the phrase that best reflects the level of certainty you want to express.

What's the difference between "are most likely" and "are possibly"?

"Are most likely" indicates a strong probability, while "are possibly" suggests a lower degree of certainty, indicating a mere possibility.