is liable to vary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is liable to vary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is subject to change or may differ under certain circumstances. Example: "The delivery time for your order is liable to vary depending on the availability of the product."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

These data represented an important parameter in the prospect of using an industrial substrate whose composition is liable to vary according to the conditions of storage and transport.

Bioresource Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Any statistical inference statement about the parameter is liable to change as the evidence changes.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

In addition, drinking habits are liable to change throughout the lifetime.

British Journal of Cancer

This change is liable to be unpredictable.

Measurement

Generally, institutional resilience is liable to damage the chances for change.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

The prophecy is liable to fulfil itself.

The Guardian

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

The New York Times

It is liable to fail to deliver on that promise.

The New York Times

He is liable to go at any time any way".

The New York Times - Books

Which of these two theories is liable to prevail?

The New York Times

[three] offenses . . . is liable to the death penalty".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is liable to vary", ensure the context clearly indicates what factors might cause the variation. This provides clarity and strengthens your statement.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "is liable to vary" can sound slightly awkward in very formal writing. Consider using more concise alternatives like "may change" or "is subject to change" for a smoother, more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is liable to vary" functions as a qualifying statement, indicating that a particular attribute or condition is subject to change or modification. Ludwig's examples shows how this phrase is used to express a degree of uncertainty or contingency.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is liable to vary" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that something is subject to change or fluctuation. While Ludwig's AI confirms its correctness, its usage frequency is relatively rare. It is typically found in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral tone. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the factors causing the variation and consider using more concise alternatives in very formal writing. Common substitutes include "is subject to change" and "may fluctuate", depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is subject to change

This alternative emphasizes that something is under the control of external factors that may cause it to change.

is prone to fluctuation

This phrase suggests that something has a tendency to rise and fall irregularly in number or amount.

is apt to differ

This alternative implies a natural tendency to be different or dissimilar.

is inclined to deviate

This phrase highlights a tendency to stray or diverge from a standard or expected course.

is apt to fluctuate

This phrase combines the natural tendency with the irregular rising and falling of something.

is susceptible to alteration

This suggests vulnerability to being changed or modified.

may be variable

This indicates that something has the capacity to change or alter, often depending on circumstances.

can potentially diverge

This option expresses the possibility of moving in different directions or deviating from a common point.

is likely to be inconsistent

This suggests a high probability that something will not be uniform or stable.

tends to be modified

Highlights a habitual or predictable pattern of being changed or adjusted.

FAQs

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

You can use "is liable to vary" to indicate that something is subject to change or may differ depending on circumstances. For example, "The delivery time for your order "is liable to vary" depending on the availability of the product."

What alternatives can I use instead of "is liable to vary"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "is subject to change", "may fluctuate", or "is prone to fluctuation".

Is "is liable to vary" formal or informal?

"Is liable to vary" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very formal contexts, you might prefer a more concise phrase. In informal settings, it might sound somewhat stilted.

What's the difference between "is liable to vary" and "is likely to vary"?

"Is liable to vary" suggests a tendency to change based on specific conditions or influences, while "is likely to vary" indicates a higher probability of change without necessarily specifying the cause. The former implies susceptibility, and the latter suggests probability.