it is liable to differ

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is liable to differ" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something is subject to change or variation. Example: "The results of the experiment are not definitive, as they are liable to differ based on the conditions under which they were conducted."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

There are many ways morality could develop to a more settled state and we are liable to differ about which of them we count as maturation and which we would describe less favourably.

SEP

Nevertheless, it is liable to break down when 'skew is severe or when population variances and sample sizes both differ' [ 37, 38].

BMC Medical Research Methodology

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

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

The Economist

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

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

Global Environmental Change

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

Cornell University

The problem is rust: unless you keep it completely dry it is liable to corrode away.

BBC

A second argument against permitting parents to genetically enhance their offspring is that it is liable to exacerbate unfairness.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is liable to differ", clearly specify what "it" refers to in your sentence to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is liable to differ" without providing context or specific conditions that might cause the difference. Be specific to add value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is liable to differ" functions as a statement indicating a potential for variation or disagreement. While Ludwig doesn't provide direct examples, similar phrases highlight this function across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is liable to differ" is grammatically sound and communicates a potential for variation or disagreement. Ludwig analysis points out that this expression finds applications across several contexts. The expression may be replaced by different alternatives like "it is subject to variation", "it may vary" or "it is likely to change".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is subject to variation

Replaces "liable to differ" with "subject to variation", emphasizing the potential for change.

it is susceptible to change

Highlights the susceptibility of something to be altered.

it is prone to variation

Substitutes "liable to differ" with "prone to variation", highlighting a tendency towards change.

it is inclined to vary

Focuses on an inclination or tendency to be different.

it may vary

Uses a more concise phrasing, "may vary", to express the possibility of differences.

it is likely to change

Replaces "liable to differ" with "likely to change", focusing on the aspect of change.

it might diverge

Uses "might diverge" to suggest a potential for moving in different directions.

it has the potential to diverge

Emphasizes the potential for divergence.

it could be dissimilar

Employs "could be dissimilar" to emphasize the potential for a lack of resemblance.

differences may arise

Focuses on the emergence of differences rather than the inherent liability.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is liable to differ" for clarity?

Consider using alternatives like "it is subject to variation", "it may vary", or "it is likely to change" depending on the context.

What does "it is liable to differ" mean?

It means that something is likely or prone to vary, change, or be different under certain conditions or circumstances.

Is "it is liable to differ" formal or informal?

The phrase is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more concise alternatives may be preferable in some situations.

When is it appropriate to use "it is liable to differ"?

Use it when you want to indicate that something is prone to variation or disagreement, especially when the specific circumstances causing the difference are relevant.