is liable to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'is liable to be' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to express the possibility of something happening, or to refer to the probability that something will happen. For example: This decision is liable to be unpopular with some of our customers.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If their numbers move, it is liable to be downward.

The New York Times

Even the interview process is liable to be hijacked.

The Guardian

The Republican presidential field is liable to be more competitive in 2016 than in 2012.

The New York Times

I felt that this picture is liable to be a wonderful picture and a commercial success".

The New Yorker

"It is a nuisance which is, or is liable to be, dangerous to health".

The Guardian

Performance at the tired end of long seasons is liable to be poor.

The New York Times - Sports

Just about anyone with a stake in national politics is liable to be blamed.

The Economist

Unfortunately, any politician bold enough to try that is liable to be driven from office.

The Economist

Capping executive compensation is liable to be rejected as un-American, which it is.

The New York Times

Obviously, what is considered a mild case is liable to be modified by financial pressures.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is liable to be some outside guidance here and there, naturally.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is liable to be" when you want to express a reasonable possibility or likelihood, especially in contexts where consequences or responsibilities are being considered. Be mindful that it can imply a negative outcome or obligation.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "is liable to be" can sound overly formal or legalistic in everyday conversation. Consider using more common alternatives like "is likely to be" or "is prone to being" to achieve a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is liable to be" functions as a modal expression indicating a probability or likelihood, often with an implication of potential negative consequences or obligations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is liable to be" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey possibility, particularly with negative or obligatory connotations. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and correct. While commonly found in news and media, its formality makes it suitable for professional and scientific contexts as well. Consider related phrases like "is likely to be" for more neutral situations, and be aware of potential overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is likely to be

Replaces "liable" with "likely", suggesting a strong probability but with less legal connotation.

is apt to be

Uses "apt" to indicate a natural tendency or suitability, implying a natural or expected outcome.

is prone to being

Emphasizes a tendency or inclination towards something, implying a vulnerability or susceptibility.

is subject to being

Highlights that something is under the authority or control of something else, indicating a potential for something to occur.

is inclined to be

Suggests a leaning or preference towards a certain outcome, implying a voluntary or influenced tendency.

is apt to become

Focuses on the potential for something to transform into something else, highlighting a future state.

is predisposed to being

Indicates a pre-existing inclination or susceptibility, suggesting a greater likelihood due to inherent factors.

is on track to be

Suggests that something is progressing in a way that will likely result in a specific outcome.

can be expected to be

Introduces an element of anticipation and expectation, indicating a reasonable prediction.

is anticipated to be

Emphasizes the expectation or prediction of a future state, implying a level of certainty or planning.

FAQs

How can I use "is liable to be" in a sentence?

The phrase "is liable to be" indicates a probability or potential for something to occur. For example, "This decision is liable to be unpopular" suggests that the decision will probably not be well-received.

What are some alternatives to "is liable to be"?

Alternatives include "is likely to be", "is prone to being", or "is apt to be". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "is liable to be" or "is likely to be"?

Both "is liable to be" and "is likely to be" are correct, but "is liable to be" often carries a stronger connotation of potential negative consequences or legal responsibility. "Is likely to be" is generally more neutral.

What's the difference between "is liable to be" and "is subject to be"?

"Is liable to be" indicates a probability or potential, often with negative consequences. "Is subject to be", or better ""is subject to"", indicates that something is under the control or influence of something else. For example, "The contract is subject to review".