increase the likelihood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "increase the likelihood" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain that something is increasing the probability that something else will happen. For example, "By studying regularly, Tom increased the likelihood of doing well in the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Why increase the likelihood of distraction?

The New Yorker

"[Although] this further report does increase the likelihood that Fr.

The New Yorker

But looser rules also increase the likelihood of unintended consequences.

The New Yorker

involvement itself "can increase the likelihood of future delinquent activity".

The New Yorker

Soft bedding can increase the likelihood of a baby suffocating.

The New York Times

This will really increase the likelihood of their returning to volunteer.

The Guardian

This may increase the likelihood of an abnormal chromosome number, should fertilization occur.

The New York Times - Health

Their purpose is to increase the likelihood that the dogs will be adopted.

The New York Times

Early detection can increase the likelihood of survival in many cases.

The New York Times

The use of more sophisticated solutions could increase the likelihood of success of any offset scheme.

The Guardian

S. & P. also said the terrorist attacks "increase the likelihood" of downgrades for G.M. and Ford.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "increase the likelihood", clearly specify the actions or conditions that lead to the increased probability. Providing context enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "increase the likelihood" when the impact is minimal or uncertain. Ensure there is a reasonable basis for claiming an increased probability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "increase the likelihood" functions as a verb phrase that indicates the action of raising the probability of a specific event or outcome. It's often used to describe how certain factors or actions can make something more probable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

24%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "increase the likelihood" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies enhancing the probability of an event or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Analysis of usage across various sources reveals that it's commonly found in news, scientific, and general contexts. While alternatives such as "boost the probability" and "enhance the chances" exist, "increase the likelihood" provides a clear and direct way to communicate how actions can lead to more favorable results. Remember to avoid overstating the impact and always provide a clear context to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

boost the probability

Replaces "likelihood" with "probability" and "increase" with "boost", emphasizing a more forceful enhancement.

enhance the chances

Substitutes "likelihood" with "chances" and "increase" with "enhance", offering a slightly less formal tone.

raise the odds

Replaces "likelihood" with "odds" and "increase" with "raise", which is more informal and suitable for casual contexts.

improve the prospect

Uses "prospect" instead of "likelihood" and "improve" instead of "increase", suggesting a positive outlook.

contribute to a higher probability

Changes the structure to focus on contributing to an increased probability, making it more descriptive.

make more likely

Simplifies the phrase by using "more likely" instead of "increase the likelihood", resulting in a more direct expression.

favor the possibility

Emphasizes the favorable aspect of the possibility, diverging slightly in connotation.

maximize the potential

Focuses on maximizing the potential rather than just increasing the likelihood, implying a greater impact.

encourage the eventuality

Suggests actively encouraging the eventual occurrence of something, adding a proactive element.

pave the way for

Metaphorically suggests clearing a path to make something more likely, shifting the focus to preparatory actions.

FAQs

How can I use "increase the likelihood" in a sentence?

You can use "increase the likelihood" to explain that certain actions make a particular outcome more probable. For instance, "Regular exercise can "increase the likelihood" of maintaining a healthy weight".

What can I say instead of "increase the likelihood"?

You can use alternatives like "boost the probability", "enhance the chances", or "raise the odds" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "increase the likelihood of"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is commonly followed by "of" and a noun or gerund phrase, specifying what the likelihood is increasing for. For example: "This will "increase the likelihood" of success".

What's the difference between "increase the likelihood" and "increase the possibility"?

"Increase the likelihood" refers to making something more probable based on current conditions or actions. "Increase the possibility" simply means making something more able to occur, regardless of its probability. Likelihood implies a higher degree of probability than possibility.