it is almost certain

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is almost certain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing a high probability that something is true or will happen. For example, "It is almost certain that unemployment rates will increase due to the current economic crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is almost certain to downgrade its forecasts for economic growth.

BBC

It is almost certain to become law.

The New York Times

But it is almost certain to fail.

The New York Times

It is almost certain that Hollywood will fail that test.

The Economist

But it is almost certain to remain a force.

The New York Times

Whatever happens, it is almost certain to be riveting.

The New York Times - Sports

It is almost certain that the UK really will exit.

The Guardian

It is almost certain that Wani will be killed.

The Guardian

It is almost certain that we will not discuss every paper.

Yale University

It is almost certain that some people walk back and forth across the imaginary line.

The New York Times

The problem with it is simple: it is almost certain to be a losing one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is almost certain", ensure the context provides sufficient evidence or reasoning to support the assertion. Avoid using it based on mere speculation.

Common error

Avoid using "it is almost certain" when the situation is merely possible or speculative. Ensure there is a strong basis for the high degree of certainty you're implying.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is almost certain" functions as an epistemic modal, indicating a high degree of confidence or probability regarding a particular outcome or statement. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is almost certain" is a versatile phrase used to express a strong belief or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, academic writing, and scientific reports. While it's important to ensure that your assertion is supported by evidence, this phrase effectively conveys a high degree of confidence. Consider alternatives like "it is highly probable" or "it is very likely" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing. Be mindful to not overuse it where the situation may merely be speculative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is highly probable

Replaces "almost certain" with "highly probable", maintaining a formal tone and similar degree of likelihood.

it is very likely

Substitutes "almost certain" with "very likely", offering a slightly less emphatic but still strong expression of probability.

it is practically guaranteed

Emphasizes the near certainty of the outcome, using "practically guaranteed" to convey a strong sense of assurance.

it is all but assured

Employs a more figurative expression, "all but assured", to indicate a very high level of confidence in a particular result.

the odds are overwhelmingly in favor of

Shifts to a more descriptive and less direct expression, focusing on the favorable odds of a certain outcome.

there is a strong likelihood

Rephrases the idea using "strong likelihood", which is slightly more formal and emphasizes the probability aspect.

it's a foregone conclusion

Indicates that the outcome is predetermined and inevitable, differing slightly in tone by suggesting a lack of surprise.

one can safely assume

Replaces the phrase with a more cautious assertion, suggesting that the assumption is well-founded and reasonable.

chances are extremely high

Uses a more informal and direct way to express a high probability, focusing on the elevated chances of something occurring.

it is reasonably certain

Offers a slightly more moderate level of certainty by using "reasonably" instead of "almost", suggesting a well-justified belief.

FAQs

How can I use "it is almost certain" in a sentence?

Use "it is almost certain" to express a high degree of confidence about a future event or current situation, like: "Given the current trends, "it is almost certain" that interest rates will rise."

What are some alternatives to "it is almost certain"?

You can use alternatives like "it is highly probable", "it is very likely", or "it is practically guaranteed" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is almost certain" formal or informal?

"It is almost certain" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might prefer "it is highly probable".

What's the difference between "it is almost certain" and "it is possible"?

"It is almost certain" indicates a high probability, close to guaranteed. "It is possible", on the other hand, only suggests that something could happen, without implying any particular likelihood.