it appears probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it appears probable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a likelihood or assumption about a situation or outcome based on available information. Example: "Based on the evidence presented, it appears probable that the project will be completed ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

It appears probable that the contract will be completed this weekend.

The New York Times - Sports

It appears probable that some form of DVD player will one day become a staple in many American households.

The New York Times - Tech

The affordable tenancy provisions of the localism bill almost certainly will become law and it appears probable that there will be more legislation along similar lines.

The Guardian

Although Dryopithecus has been known by a variety of names based upon fragmentary material found over a widespread area including Europe, Africa, and Asia, it appears probable that only a single genus is represented.

Britannica

It appears probable that some of the later glass at York (c. 1350 70), now distributed over the windows of the choir clerestory, was the work of an imported French glazier, probably from Rouen.

Britannica

It appears probable that Mr. Milosevic may try to portray the NATO bombers as the true villains, and the NATO bombs that went astray and killed Serbian civilians are almost certain to gain prominent mention.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

It appeared probable that Jourdan or Moreau would outmaneuver Charles by driving a wedge between his force and that of Wartensleben.

Wikipedia

It appeared probable that the crowns would pass to one of Elizabeth's underage daughters and by 1374, their rights were confirmed.

Wikipedia

It thus appears probable that these two series of earthworks were constructed by opposing forces.

University of Chicago

If it passes the Senate this week as now appears probable, it stands a much better chance of actually becoming law, culminating decades of largely failed efforts to revamp the nation's health care system.

The New York Times

However, it is not impossible, and it's certainly possible to get a strong uptick in construction.It certainly appears probable that achievement of a real bottom for home prices could touch off a series of feedback loops.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it appears probable" when you want to express a reasoned assessment of likelihood based on available information, rather than a definitive statement of fact.

Common error

Avoid using "it appears probable" when the evidence strongly suggests a certain outcome; opt for more definitive language like "it is certain" or "it will happen".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it appears probable" functions as an introductory phrase used to express a degree of likelihood or possibility. It's often used to soften a statement and indicate that the conclusion is based on an assessment rather than a definitive fact, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

33%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it appears probable" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express likelihood based on available information. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. While not as common as simpler alternatives like "it seems likely", this phrase finds frequent use in scientific, news, and academic writing. When using "it appears probable", ensure that you are expressing a reasoned assessment and not overstating the certainty of a situation. Its formal tone makes it suitable for professional contexts where a degree of objectivity and caution is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it seems likely

Replaces "appears" with "seems" and "probable" with "likely", maintaining a similar level of certainty.

it is likely that

Changes the structure to a more direct statement of likelihood.

it is probable that

Removes "appears" for a stronger, more direct assertion of probability.

it would seem that

Emphasizes the impression or inference being made.

it could be inferred that

Highlights the act of drawing a conclusion based on evidence.

one might assume that

Suggests a degree of speculation or educated guessing.

the evidence suggests

Shifts focus to the supporting evidence rather than a personal assessment.

it is reasonable to expect

Focuses on anticipating a particular outcome based on current conditions.

the situation indicates

Attributes the indication of probability to the overall situation.

we can anticipate that

Expresses expectation and anticipation about a future event.

FAQs

How can I use "it appears probable" in a sentence?

Use "it appears probable" to introduce a statement about something that is likely but not certain, based on the information available. For example, "It appears probable that the meeting will be postponed."

What are some alternatives to "it appears probable"?

You can use alternatives like "it seems likely", "it is likely that", or "it is probable that".

Is "it appears probable" formal or informal?

"It appears probable" is considered a relatively formal phrase, suitable for academic writing, news reports, and professional communications. In more casual settings, alternatives like "it seems likely" might be preferred.

What's the difference between "it appears probable" and "it is probable"?

"It appears probable" suggests a degree of uncertainty or reliance on observation, whereas "it is probable" is a more direct statement of likelihood. The former is more cautious, while the latter carries greater conviction.