it is liable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is liable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the likelihood of something happening or when indicating responsibility for something. Example: "The company is liable for any damages caused by its products."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cerberus, a New York private investment firm, reiterated its argument that it is liable for only $100 million in damages if it terminates the deal, valued at $7 billion including the assumption of debt.

The New York Times

Despite the changes in water level to which it is liable and its remoteness from markets, Lake Rukwa is third to Lakes Victoria and Tanganyika among the freshwater fisheries of Tanzania.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the moment it is merely the sum of its parts—and, as such, it is liable to enjoy the unflattering distinction of being valued, from the moment of its creation, mainly in terms of its break-up potential.

The Economist

ITV plc said that because of its size the move could mean it is liable for up to 92% of any fine for ITV1 network TV shows that breach Ofcom's regulations.

The Guardian

As the horse cannot see below a line from the eye to the nostril, it should not be allowed to toss its head back, particularly near an obstacle, as it is liable to leap blindly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the experience of Iraq has demonstrated, with equal clarity, that when America does not disguise its imperial force, when a proconsul leads an "occupying power," it is liable to find itself in an untenable position quickly enough.

The New York Times

The telecommunications company Vodafone is still appealing Indian court rulings last year that it is liable for about $2 billion in capital gains taxes on its $11 billion acquisition in 2007 of a controlling stake in one of India's largest cellphone companies.

The New York Times

If their numbers move, it is liable to be downward.

The New York Times

It is liable to fail to deliver on that promise.

The New York Times

The cost of the project is £33bn, but it is liable to exceed that.

Independent

Like all murky stuff, it is liable to strike people as dangerous or unreliable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is liable", ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a potential outcome or a legal/financial responsibility. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "it is liable" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using alternatives like "likely" or "prone to" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is liable" primarily functions as a stative verb phrase expressing a state of potentiality, obligation, or tendency. Ludwig AI examples indicate use in contexts ranging from legal responsibility to the probability of events occurring.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is liable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression with two primary functions: indicating a potential outcome or assigning responsibility. As Ludwig AI highlights, it appears most often in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While versatile, it is crucial to consider the formality of the setting and whether an alternative like "likely" or "responsible" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is responsible

Focuses more on accountability and duty than simple potential.

it is accountable

Emphasizes being answerable for actions or outcomes.

it is subject to

Highlights the condition of being affected by something.

it is prone to

Indicates a natural tendency or inclination towards something.

it is apt to

Suggests a likelihood or tendency, often in a specific situation.

it is apt

Focuses on the suitability or appropriateness of something.

it is inclined to

Implies a disposition or leaning towards a particular action or state.

it is exposed to

Emphasizes vulnerability or openness to external influences.

it is at risk of

Stresses the potential danger or negative consequences.

it is in danger of

Highlights a more severe or immediate threat compared to other alternatives.

FAQs

What does "it is liable" mean?

The phrase "it is liable" means that something is likely to happen or that someone is legally responsible for something. The specific meaning depends on the context in which it's used.

How can I use "it is liable" in a sentence?

You can use "it is liable" to indicate a probability, such as, "If the weather stays cold, "it is liable to snow"." Alternatively, you can use it to denote legal responsibility, such as, "The company is liable for any damages caused by its products."

What are some alternatives to "it is liable"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it is likely", "it is responsible", or "it is subject to".

When is it appropriate to use "it is liable" instead of "it is likely"?

Use "it is liable" when you want to emphasize a potential negative consequence or a legal obligation. "It is likely" is more general and simply indicates a higher probability of something occurring.