it is more likely to

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is more likely to" is a grammatically correct phrase that is commonly used in written English.
You can use it when you are comparing two different possibilities and you want to express that one of them is more likely than the other. For example: "Given the current weather conditions, it is more likely to rain this afternoon than to snow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Stroke its shell and when it is more likely to cooperate, place it inside the playground.

WikiHow

Treat the PRC like an enemy and it is more likely to become one.

Huffington Post

It is more likely to work.

The Economist

"It makes you feel it is more likely to happen.

The Guardian

"It is more likely to get pulled and torn".

The New York Times - Health

Nowadays it is more likely to be passive aggression.

The New York Times - Books

In fact, it is more likely to worsen.

The Economist

It is more likely to find ancient spores than ancient Deinococci on Mars.

Advances in Space Research

When it contains gastric (stomach) tissue, it is more likely to cause bleeding.

Harvard University

In other countries it is more likely to be called private international law.

Harvard University

On the other hand, I think it is more likely to heat up than cool down.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is more likely to" when comparing two or more potential outcomes, clarifying which has a higher chance of occurring. For example: "Given her qualifications, it is more likely to be offered the job than her competitor."

Common error

Avoid using "it is more likely to" when a direct statement of probability is clearer. Instead of "It is more likely to rain today than be sunny", say "It will probably rain today."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is more likely to" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb, expressing a higher degree of probability. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is commonly used in written English to compare different possibilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is more likely to" is a versatile phrase used to express a greater probability of one event or outcome compared to others. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage in written English. It is frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources. When a simple expression of probability is needed, direct statements are clearer. To offer variety, consider alternatives such as "it is probable that" or "it will probably". By understanding its function and context, writers can use "it is more likely to" effectively and accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is probable that

Replaces "likely" with "probable", maintaining the sense of probability but with a slightly more formal tone.

it will probably

Uses "probably" to express likelihood, offering a more direct and less formal alternative.

it seems likely that

Introduces an element of observation or inference, suggesting that the likelihood is based on available evidence.

it is inclined to

Shifts the focus to a tendency or inclination, suggesting a predisposition towards something.

it is apt to

Indicates a natural tendency or suitability for a specific action or outcome.

chances are it will

An idiomatic expression conveying a high probability of something occurring.

it is prone to

Suggests a vulnerability or susceptibility to something, often negative.

it is susceptible to

Similar to "prone to", emphasizing a lack of resistance or ability to avoid something.

it is reasonable to assume

Emphasizes the logical basis for expecting a particular outcome.

it is anticipated that

Conveys an expectation or prediction, often based on prior knowledge or planning.

FAQs

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

Use "it is more likely to" to compare the probabilities of different outcomes. For instance, "Given the economic forecast, it is more likely to see a rise in interest rates than a decrease".

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

You can use alternatives like "it is probable that", "it will probably", or "chances are it will" depending on the context.

Is "it is likely to" grammatically different from "it is more likely to"?

"It is likely to" expresses a general probability, while "it is more likely to" compares the probability of one event against another, indicating a higher chance of occurrence.

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

Use "it is more likely to" when directly contrasting two or more possible outcomes to emphasize the higher probability of one over the others. For example, "Considering his experience, it is more likely to be promoted than his colleagues".