it is likely that

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is likely that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is probable or expected to happen. For example: "It is likely that the weather will be sunny tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is likely that this will be the last reset.

The New York Times - Tech

It is likely that secretly they do not.

The Guardian - Sport

It is likely that Gottlieb learned printmaking from Levy.

The New York Times

It is likely that Congress will extend the ban.

The New York Times

"It is likely that such an application will be made".

The Guardian

It is likely that Netanyahu will surmount the challenges.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is likely that nobody would have turned up.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is likely that both features contribute.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

It is likely that he will go.

Lingua Sinica

It is likely that there are many more to discover.

Duke University

he__will__go__DINGLAA It is likely that he will go.

Lingua Sinica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is likely that" when you want to express a reasoned judgment based on available evidence, without stating it as a certainty. For instance, "It is likely that the new policy will improve efficiency."

Common error

Avoid using "it is likely that" when you have definitive proof or evidence. If the outcome is certain, use stronger language to reflect that assurance. For instance, instead of saying "It is likely that the experiment will succeed" when all tests indicate success, say "The experiment will certainly succeed."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is likely that" functions as an epistemic phrase, expressing a degree of probability or likelihood. It introduces a statement that is considered more probable than not, but not entirely certain. Ludwig AI, in it's response, confirms the correctness and usability of the expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

59%

News & Media

27%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is likely that" is a versatile and commonly used phrase for expressing probability across diverse contexts, primarily in science, news, and academic writing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, highlighting its function as an epistemic marker. When using this phrase, consider the degree of certainty you wish to convey, and avoid overstating claims when stronger evidence is lacking. Alternatives like ""it is probable that"" or ""it is expected that"" can be used to fine-tune the nuance. This phrase is generally neutral in register, making it appropriate for a wide range of professional and academic communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is probable that

This alternative suggests a high degree of certainty, similar to the original phrase.

it seems probable that

This alternative combines the elements of likelihood and appearance, suggesting a well-founded probability.

it is expected that

This alternative implies an anticipation of a particular outcome or event.

it is anticipated that

Similar to "it is expected that", but often used in more formal contexts.

it is plausible that

This alternative indicates that something is believable or has a reasonable chance of occurring.

it is reasonable to assume that

This phrase suggests making an assumption based on available evidence or logic.

one can expect that

This phrase conveys an expectation based on prior knowledge or experience.

chances are that

This phrase is more informal and suggests a good possibility of something happening.

the odds are that

This phrase is similar to "chances are that" and suggests a probabilistic outcome.

it would appear that

This alternative suggests that something seems to be the case based on available evidence.

FAQs

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

Use "it is likely that" to express a reasoned judgment or expectation. For example, "It is likely that the meeting will be postponed due to the weather."

What are some alternatives to "it is likely that"?

You can use alternatives such as "it is probable that", "it is plausible that", or "it is expected that", depending on the degree of certainty you want to convey.

Is "it is likely that" formal or informal?

"It is likely that" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, it's more common in professional or academic writing than in casual conversation.

How does the nuance of "it is likely that" compare to "it is possible that"?

"It is likely that" suggests a higher degree of probability than "it is possible that". While "it is possible that" indicates something could happen, "it is likely that" suggests it probably will.