it is liable to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is liable to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is likely to happen or prone to a particular condition or outcome. Example: "The old bridge is liable to collapse if it is not repaired soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

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

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

Sadly, it is liable to limp on until an opposition that looks fit to govern emerges.

The Economist

The county in which such property is situated, or in which it is liable to taxation.

Cornell University

Otherwise, it is liable to create long-term maladaptive outcomes and undermine the ability of these systems to reduce vulnerability.

Global Environmental Change

When Congress reconvenes after a summer of recrimination, it is liable to be no less divided than before.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "it is liable to" with a specific action or state. Vague or ambiguous descriptions can weaken the impact of the statement.

Common error

A common mistake is using "it is liable to" when "it might" or "it could" would be more appropriate. "It is liable to" suggests a higher probability than a mere possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is liable to" functions as a modal expression indicating probability or potential. It suggests that something is likely to happen or is prone to a certain condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is correct and frequently used in various writing contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is liable to" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that expresses a high probability or tendency for something to occur. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from neutral to formal. The phrase is prevalent in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. While "it is likely to", "it is prone to", and "it tends to" serve as effective alternatives, it's important to ensure that "it is liable to" is used when there is a genuine and well-founded expectation of a particular outcome. Avoid overstating likelihood and be mindful of the context to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is likely to

Replaces "liable" with "likely", offering a more common and straightforward expression of probability.

it is prone to

Substitutes "liable" with "prone", indicating a natural inclination or tendency towards something.

it is apt to

Replaces "liable" with "apt", suggesting a natural or habitual tendency.

it tends to

Indicates a usual pattern or behavior, similar to being liable.

it is inclined to

Suggests a predisposition or leaning towards a particular action or outcome.

it is susceptible to

Highlights a vulnerability or openness to being affected by something.

it runs the risk of

Emphasizes the potential negative consequences or dangers associated with something.

it is subject to

Indicates that something is under the control or influence of something else.

it may

Offers a shorter, more direct way to express possibility.

it could

Similar to "it may", but can also suggest a conditional possibility.

FAQs

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

Use "it is liable to" to indicate that something is likely or has a tendency to happen, such as, "The old bridge "is liable to collapse" if not repaired soon".

What are some alternatives to "it is liable to"?

You can use alternatives like "it is likely to", "it is prone to", or "it tends to" depending on the context.

When should I use "it is liable to" instead of "it might"?

"It is liable to" suggests a higher probability and a stronger tendency compared to "it might". Use "it is liable to" when there is significant evidence or reason to expect the outcome.

Is "it is liable to" formal or informal?

"It is liable to" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts. While not overly formal, it maintains a level of professionalism appropriate for news, academic writing, and business communications.