it is less likely

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is less likely" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to express that something is not as probable or likely to happen compared to something else. Example: "Due to the current economic climate, it is less likely that we will receive a pay raise this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Saying it is less likely to occur, but if it does we are fried".

The New York Times - Science

I think it is less likely after the rows of the last month".

The Guardian

If he gains notoriety, it is less likely that he will grow out of crime.

The Guardian

It is less likely that we would give money directly to the city.

The New York Times

Always go for a hardwood as it is less likely to dent and will wear longer.

Independent

And with twice the ignition temperature of petrol, it is less likely to catch fire.

The Economist

If a signal occurs after an atypical interval, it is less likely to be detected.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The flat-lock stitching means it is less likely to chafe when you're in game mode.

Independent

(Yes, Japan is still an economic heavyweight, but it is less likely to yield surprises).

The Economist

It is less likely to settle the score than to reignite debate.

The New York Times - Magazine

If anyone understands that mood, it is less likely to be Mr Chrétien than Mr Day.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is less likely" to convey a reduced probability, but avoid overuse by varying your language with synonyms such as "unlikely" or "improbable" for more engaging writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it is less likely" when the situation warrants a stronger statement of impossibility. If evidence strongly suggests something cannot happen, use phrases like "it is impossible" or "there is no chance" to accurately reflect the certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is less likely" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause. It indicates a lower probability of an event or situation occurring. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and commonly used in written English. The examples provided showcase its use in various contexts to express diminished possibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is less likely" is a versatile phrase used to express reduced probability across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it's important to choose it deliberately, ensuring it accurately reflects the level of uncertainty you wish to convey. Synonyms like "unlikely" or "improbable" can offer variety, but "it is less likely" remains a reliable and effective way to temper expectations or predictions in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is unlikely

A direct synonym, indicating a low chance of occurrence.

it is improbable

Emphasizes a lower probability, suggesting that something is not expected to happen.

it is doubtful

Highlights uncertainty and skepticism about the possibility of something occurring.

it is not very promising

Suggests that the outlook or potential for something to happen is weak.

it's a remote possibility

Highlights that the chance of something happening is distant and minimal.

it is questionable

Suggests uncertainty and raises doubts about the possibility.

chances are slim

Uses an idiomatic expression to suggest a minimal possibility.

it is far-fetched

Indicates that the idea or possibility is unrealistic or difficult to believe.

the odds are against it

Implies that external factors reduce the likelihood of success or occurrence.

it's a long shot

Indicates that the possibility is remote and success is difficult to achieve.

FAQs

How can I use "it is less likely" in a sentence?

"It is less likely" is used to express that something has a lower probability of occurring. For example, "Given the current market conditions, it is less likely that the company will expand this year."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is less likely"?

You can use alternatives such as "it is unlikely", "it is improbable", or "the chances are slim" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a subtle difference between "it is less likely" and "it is unlikely"?

While both phrases express a low probability, "it is less likely" may suggest a slightly more nuanced comparison, whereas "it is unlikely" is a more direct statement of low probability.

When should I use "it is less likely" instead of "it is impossible"?

Use "it is less likely" when there is still a small chance of something happening, however improbable. Use "it is impossible" only when there is absolutely no chance of the event occurring.