chances are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chances are" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a likelihood or probability of something happening. Example: "Chances are, it will rain tomorrow, so you might want to bring an umbrella."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Chances are, no.

The New York Times

Chances are, he was.

The New York Times

"Chances are it's not.

The New York Times - Arts

Chances are, they won't".

The New York Times

Chances are, you don't.

Stanford University

Chances are you're highly intelligent.

Independent

Chances are he never will.

The New York Times

"The chances are so unlikely.

Independent

But those chances are slim.

The New York Times - Sports

Our chances are still intact.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

My chances / Are 20%!

University of Chicago

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "chances are" to introduce a statement that is likely to be true but not definitively proven. It adds a conversational tone to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "chances are" when you have concrete evidence or proof. Reserve it for situations where you're making an educated guess or assessment based on available information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chances are" functions as an adverbial, modifying a clause or sentence by expressing a degree of probability. According to Ludwig AI, this idiom is widely used to suggest a likelihood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

12%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "chances are" functions as an adverbial to express a degree of probability or likelihood. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and frequent usage. Primarily found in News & Media and leaning toward informal registers, it serves to suggest a strong possibility without absolute certainty. When writing, use it to introduce likely scenarios, but avoid when you have proof. Consider alternatives like "it is likely" or "in all likelihood" for variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is probable

Replaces the idiomatic expression with a more formal and direct statement of probability.

it is likely

Similar to "it is probable", but slightly less formal.

in all likelihood

A more emphatic way of expressing probability.

it is to be expected

Suggests that something is predictable based on the current circumstances.

odds are

A shorter, more informal version expressing probability.

one can anticipate

Implies a degree of certainty based on prior knowledge or experience.

it is foreseeable

Highlights the predictability of an event based on current trends or conditions.

it seems reasonable

Suggests a logical basis for expecting something to happen.

it stands to reason

Indicates that something is a logical conclusion based on given facts.

one might expect

A more tentative way of expressing expectation or probability.

FAQs

How can I use "chances are" in a sentence?

"Chances are" is used to express a probability or likelihood. For example, "Chances are, it will rain later today, so bring an umbrella."

What are some alternatives to saying "chances are"?

You can use alternatives like "it is likely", "it is probable", or "in all likelihood" to express a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "chance is" instead of "chances are"?

No, "chance is" is not the correct idiom. The correct and commonly used phrase is "chances are", which expresses a probability or likelihood.

When is it appropriate to use "chances are" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "chances are" when you want to suggest something is likely to happen or be true, but you don't have absolute certainty. It works well in both informal and semi-formal contexts.