factor in the likelihood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "factor in the likelihood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of considering the probability or chances of an event occurring in decision-making or analysis. Example: "When planning the project, we need to factor in the likelihood of potential delays due to weather conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Industry analysts say that oil prices already factor in the likelihood of war.

The Guardian

It's even harder when you factor in the likelihood of them achieving a particular set of grades.

The Guardian

The accounting board has devised a method that will require severely depleted pension funds to factor in the likelihood that they will run out of money at some point, and have to borrow to pay retirees their benefits.

The New York Times

The main question asked of the audience at this early stage is: "Er, where was I again?" You'd think this might be frustrating, and for someone judging a comedy award it is – you have to factor in the likelihood of the show improving over the course of its run before coming to any judgment.

The Guardian

When it comes to forming habits, frequency matters and studies have demonstrated that how often a behavior occurs is a key factor in the likelihood of creating a new routine.

TechCrunch

An important factor in the likelihood of being seriously injured or a fatality is the type of road where an accident occurs.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Even factoring in the likelihood that her younger sister would spend half the weekend at the bubble stall, E was bound to catch somebody.

The Guardian - Music

Factoring in the likelihood of a recovery further cuts the chances of a turnover on a rush by Mr Lynch to around 0.6%.

The Economist

At the epicenter of the problem — Greece — the cost of insuring $10 million worth of Greek debt now equals $5.7 million, a new high, underscoring how the market is already factoring in the likelihood of a Greek default.

The New York Times

But when they factored in the likelihood that a nearby star would have the right kind of planet — one of the right size, and in an orbit far out enough that it could be pulled into a far-out orbit around our sun — to begin with, that probability dropped to around 1percentt or less.

The Washington Post

Despite a steady drumbeat of optimism about the economy from top business executives — and rightly so, given the record results they've been producing and expect to produce over the next year — some investors have been quietly suggesting that the market was starting to look expensive when factoring in the likelihood of inflation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "factor in the likelihood", ensure you clearly articulate what event's probability is being considered and how it impacts the decision or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "factor in the likelihood" without specifying the event or outcome being assessed. Vague references can dilute the phrase's impact and obscure its purpose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "factor in the likelihood" functions as a verb phrase indicating the necessity of including probability assessments in evaluations or planning processes. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it highlights the integration of chance into decision-making.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "factor in the likelihood" is a phrase used to emphasize the need to consider probability in decision-making and planning. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable, though relatively rare. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, the phrase conveys a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, ensure that the event being assessed is clearly specified. Alternative phrases include "consider the probability" and "weigh the odds". Overall, while not exceptionally common, "factor in the likelihood" is a valid and useful phrase when accuracy and thoroughness are required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Consider the probability

Focuses directly on the mathematical aspect of probability without implying incorporation into a broader decision.

Bear in mind the likelihood

Implies a constant awareness and consideration of potential occurrences.

Take the chances into account

Highlights the act of acknowledging and integrating potential outcomes into planning.

Estimate the probability

Focuses on quantifying the likelihood of an event occurring.

Weigh the odds

Emphasizes comparing different probabilities to make a decision.

Incorporate the chance

Stresses the integration of probability into a process or system.

Assess the risk factor

Focuses on the dangers and potential negative outcomes of an event.

Account for the possibility

Broadly covers any potential outcome, positive or negative.

Consider the potential

Highlights the possible outcomes, whether positive or negative, without explicit reference to probability.

Allow for the prospect

Similar to accounting for possibility, but leans towards anticipated positive events.

FAQs

How to use "factor in the likelihood" in a sentence?

Use "factor in the likelihood" when you want to emphasize the importance of considering probability in a decision-making process. For example: "We must "factor in the likelihood" of unforeseen delays when planning the project schedule."

What's a simpler way to say "factor in the likelihood"?

You can use phrases like "consider the probability", "take into account the chances", or "weigh the odds" as simpler alternatives to "factor in the likelihood".

When is it appropriate to use "factor in the likelihood"?

It's appropriate to use "factor in the likelihood" in situations where a formal assessment of risk or probability is necessary, such as in financial analysis, project management, or scientific research.

How does "factor in the likelihood" differ from "consider the possibility"?

"Factor in the likelihood" implies a more quantitative assessment of probability, while "consider the possibility" is a broader term that includes any potential outcome, whether or not its probability is known.