is virtually certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is virtually certain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a high level of confidence or probability regarding a statement or outcome. Example: "Based on the evidence presented, it is virtually certain that the project will be completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Now, the picture is virtually certain to move, making the film's political content a moot point.

The New York Times

A recession is virtually certain for 2012".

The New York Times

"Untimely death is virtually certain," he says.

Independent

We can say that is virtually certain.

The Guardian - Sport

After about 10 minutes, she said, death is virtually certain.

The New York Times

It is virtually certain that petroleum will be found there".

The New York Times

The total cost is virtually certain to rise.

The New York Times

House passage later this week is virtually certain.

The New York Times

Dividing Iraq, however, is virtually certain to make things worse.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It is virtually certain that is not accurate, as least as will be determined by the arbiters of recession at the National Bureau of Economic Research.

The New York Times

But this is virtually certain to ensure new weapons development by the major nuclear weapons states, particularly Russia and China.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is virtually certain" when you want to convey a very high degree of confidence in a prediction or statement, based on strong evidence or logical reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "is virtually certain" when the evidence is not conclusive or when there is a reasonable possibility of an alternative outcome. Overstating certainty can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is virtually certain" functions as an evaluative expression, indicating a high degree of confidence or probability regarding a particular outcome or statement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

24%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is virtually certain" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to indicate a high degree of confidence or probability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic and scientific writing. While conveying a strong sense of conviction, it's essential to avoid overstating certainty and use the phrase judiciously, ensuring sufficient evidence supports the claim. Alternatives such as "is almost guaranteed" or "is highly probable" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is practically certain

Very close in meaning, implying a negligible chance of the opposite outcome.

is all but certain

Suggests that only a very small chance of failure or change remains.

is almost guaranteed

Indicates a very high probability, close to absolute certainty, with a slight emphasis on a promise or assurance.

is a foregone conclusion

Implies that the outcome is already decided or inevitable, often due to overwhelming evidence or influence.

is highly probable

Suggests a strong likelihood but leaves a bit more room for doubt than "is virtually certain".

is extremely likely

Emphasizes the high probability of an event, similar to "is virtually certain" but with a less formal tone.

is bound to occur

Suggests inevitability, often implying a natural or predetermined course of events.

can be safely assumed

Implies a high degree of confidence based on available evidence or logical reasoning.

is sure to follow

Indicates a predictable consequence or sequence of events.

is expected to happen

Focuses on anticipation and prediction, rather than absolute certainty.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is virtually certain"?

Use "is virtually certain" when you want to express a very high level of confidence about a future event or outcome based on strong evidence. It suggests that while not 100% guaranteed, the event is highly probable. For expressing a slightly less confidence, you can also use alternatives like "is highly probable" or "is extremely likely".

What are some alternatives to "is virtually certain"?

Alternatives include "is almost guaranteed", "is practically certain", "is all but certain", and "is highly probable". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "is virtually certain" the same as "is absolutely certain"?

No, "is virtually certain" implies a very high probability but acknowledges a slight possibility of error or change. "Is absolutely certain" suggests 100% certainty with no room for doubt. Therefore, "is absolutely certain" is a stronger statement than "is virtually certain".

How can I use "is virtually certain" in a sentence?

You can use "is virtually certain" to describe events, predictions, or conclusions. For example, "Given the current data, it "is virtually certain" that the company will exceed its sales targets".