be more likely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be more likely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the probability or chance of something happening compared to another scenario. Example: "If we increase our marketing efforts, we will be more likely to attract new customers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

When ΔT = 0, the non-CNTs or onion-like carbon may be more likely to form.

Nanoscale Research Letters

You may be more likely to have a caesarian.

The Guardian

They also might be more likely to attend more plays.

The New York Times

Me, I'd be more likely to buy milk and eggs.

The New York Times

And you'll be more likely to reject other stuff.

Independent

Those techniques may be more likely to spread bacteria.

The New York Times

Females seemed to be more likely to develop a stroke.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

I think they will probably be more likely in America".

BBC

Sweden's Henrik Stenson might be more likely to topple Woods.

BBC

(Yes, some of these may be more likely than others).

TechCrunch

You'd probably be more likely to stop by.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be more likely" to express probabilistic outcomes based on specific conditions or factors. This enhances the clarity and precision of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "be more likely" without specifying the alternative or comparison. For example, instead of saying 'This approach is more likely', clarify with 'This approach is more likely to succeed than the previous one'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be more likely" functions as a comparative verb phrase indicating a higher probability or chance of something occurring. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

39%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be more likely" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express a higher probability of an event or outcome. According to Ludwig AI, its versatility allows it to fit into diverse writing styles, although clarity in comparison is key. It's prevalent in scientific, news, and general contexts. Remember to always provide a clear comparison to what something is 'more likely' than, to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a greater chance

Focuses on the probabilistic aspect, emphasizing the existence of a better opportunity.

have an increased likelihood

Specifically points to a heightened probability.

be more prone

Highlights a predisposition or susceptibility towards something.

tend to

Indicates a general inclination or habitual behavior.

incline to

Suggests a leaning or preference towards a particular action or outcome.

be apt to

Implies a natural or inherent tendency.

be liable to

Emphasizes the potential for something negative to occur.

be apt to happen

Highlights a natural or inherent tendency of something happening.

be predisposed to

Suggests a pre-existing condition or factor that makes something more probable.

be inclined to believe

Suggests a predisposition towards believing something.

FAQs

How can I use "be more likely" in a sentence?

Use "be more likely" to indicate a higher probability of something happening compared to something else. For example, "If you study, you will "be more likely" to pass the test".

What phrases can I use instead of "be more likely"?

You can use alternatives like "have a greater chance", "be more prone", or "tend to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "be more likely" or "is more likely"?

"Be more likely" is used in constructions where 'be' functions as an infinitive or subjunctive, often following modal verbs (e.g., 'will', 'might'). "Is more likely" is used when 'is' functions as the main verb in a clause (e.g., 'He is more likely to succeed').

What's the difference between "be more likely" and "become more likely"?

"Be more likely" suggests a current state or general tendency, while "become more likely" indicates a change in probability over time. For example, "As technology improves, remote work will become more likely".