infinitely less likely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "infinitely less likely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a comparison indicating that one event or outcome is significantly less probable than another, often in a hyperbolic sense. Example: "While both scenarios are possible, the chance of winning the lottery is infinitely less likely than being struck by lightning."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The interpretation is that, although Bob does not rule out the possibility that Ann will choose \(D\) (i.e., choose irrationally), he does consider it infinitely less likely than her choosing \(U\) (i.e., choosing rationally).

SEP

The larger your aquarium the more stable the water parameters will be day to day, and week by week, you will still need to perform regular water changes but you will be infinitely less likely to run into problems.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

While he irritates some viewers - as more or less anyone talking at you for an hour and a half is likely to do - he remains infinitely less annoying than his ITV rival Clive Tyldesley who rarely pauses to take breath.

The Guardian - Sport

Less likely.

The Economist

It was infinitely less dangerous".

The Guardian - Sport

But it will be infinitely less predictable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Consensus seems less likely.

The New Yorker

Less likely than unlikely?

The New York Times - Sports

Less likely than whom?

Independent

It will be infinitely less embarrassing here in the office!

Independent

Obama-Clinton is less likely.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "infinitely less likely" when you want to strongly emphasize the extremely low probability of something compared to another possibility. This phrase is most effective when you aim to create a dramatic or hyperbolic effect.

Common error

Avoid using "infinitely less likely" in contexts where a more moderate comparison is sufficient. Overusing such strong language can diminish its impact and make your writing sound less credible. Consider whether a phrase like "far less likely" or "much less likely" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "infinitely less likely" functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the degree to which one event is less probable than another. It emphasizes a vast difference in likelihood. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "infinitely less likely" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that indicates a vast difference in probability between two events, with one being significantly less probable than the other. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct. While it's generally suitable for neutral or informal contexts, its hyperbolic nature might make it less ideal for strict scientific or formal writing, where more precise comparisons are preferred. Alternatives such as "far less likely" or "significantly less likely" offer less dramatic yet still effective ways to convey reduced probability. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media sources, reflecting its usage in expressing strong or dramatic differences in likelihood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vastly less probable

Replaces "infinitely" with "vastly" to soften the hyperbolic tone while retaining a strong sense of improbability.

substantially less likely

Emphasizes a significant reduction in likelihood without implying an infinite difference.

considerably less probable

Similar to "substantially less likely", highlighting a noticeable decrease in probability.

far less likely

A more common and less formal alternative, indicating a significant difference in likelihood.

much less likely

A simpler and more direct way to express a lower probability.

significantly less likely

Highlights the importance of the difference in probability.

appreciably less likely

Indicates that the difference in probability is easily noticeable.

noticeably less likely

Similar to "appreciably less likely", emphasizing the perceptibility of the difference.

markedly less likely

Implies a clear and distinct difference in probability.

distinctly less probable

Highlights a clear and unambiguous difference in likelihood.

FAQs

How can I use "infinitely less likely" in a sentence?

You can use "infinitely less likely" to emphasize that one event is far less probable than another. For example: "While both outcomes are possible, winning the lottery is "infinitely less likely" than getting a regular paycheck."

What are some alternatives to "infinitely less likely"?

You can use alternatives like "far less likely", "much less probable", or "significantly less likely" depending on the context. These options may sound less hyperbolic.

Is it appropriate to use "infinitely less likely" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "infinitely less likely" can sound hyperbolic. In formal writing, consider using "substantially less likely" or "considerably less likely" for a more measured tone.

What is the difference between "less likely" and "infinitely less likely"?

"Less likely" indicates a lower probability, while "infinitely less likely" suggests an extremely large difference in probability, approaching impossibility. The latter is a hyperbolic expression.