is not likely

USAGE SUMMARY

"is not likely" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing the opinion that something is unlikely to happen. For example: "It is not likely that she will be able to finish the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That is not likely.

The New York Times

But legalisation is not likely.

The Economist

But that is not likely.

The New York Times - Sports

Surprise is not likely.

The New York Times - Magazine

That is not likely to end now.

The New York Times

That is not likely to happen.

The New York Times

But that outcome is not likely.

The New York Times - Sports

This is not likely to, er, wash.

The New Yorker

Ms Radicova is not likely to stay.

The Economist

This is not likely to change soon.

The New York Times

That is not likely to change.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is not likely" to express a cautious prediction or assessment when you want to convey that something has a low probability of occurring. This avoids making definitive statements and allows for uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "is not likely" when you have strong evidence or a high degree of confidence that something will not happen. In such cases, consider using more definitive phrases like "is impossible" or "will not occur".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not likely" functions as a modal expression indicating a low degree of probability or expectation. It is used to qualify a statement, suggesting that the event or situation being described is improbable but not impossible. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not likely" is a versatile expression used to convey a low probability or expectation, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a modal expression, allowing for nuanced communication of uncertainty. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, with considerable presence in Science, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. When aiming to express improbability, related phrases such as "is unlikely" or "is improbable" can be used for variety. It's important to avoid overstating certainty and choosing more definitive phrases when strong evidence exists. In summary, "is not likely" provides a balanced way to express doubt without making absolute claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unlikely

A more direct synonym, simply stating that the event is not expected to occur.

is improbable

Emphasizes a lack of probability, suggesting that the event is less expected.

is not expected

Focuses on the lack of anticipation or expectation for the event.

is doubtful

Highlights uncertainty and skepticism regarding the event's occurrence.

is questionable

Suggests that there are reasons to doubt whether the event will happen.

is far from certain

Highlights the lack of certainty surrounding the event.

has little chance

Indicates a low probability or possibility of the event happening.

is a long shot

Implies that the event is a remote possibility with minimal chances of success.

is against the odds

Suggests that the event faces unfavorable circumstances or conditions.

doesn't seem probable

Expresses a subjective assessment that the event is not likely based on available information.

FAQs

How can I use "is not likely" in a sentence?

You can use "is not likely" to express that something has a low probability of occurring. For example, "It is not likely that the weather will improve tomorrow" or "She is not likely to accept the offer".

What are some alternatives to "is not likely"?

Alternatives include "is unlikely", "is improbable", "is doubtful", or "is questionable". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of uncertainty you want to convey.

Is "it's not likely" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it's not likely" is a grammatically correct contraction of "it is not likely". Both forms are acceptable and commonly used in writing and speech.

What's the difference between "is not likely" and "is not possible"?

"Is not likely" implies a low probability, while "is not possible" indicates that something cannot happen under any circumstances. "The team is not likely to win" suggests they have a small chance, whereas "It is not possible to travel faster than light" states a physical impossibility.