it is not likely to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not likely to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a low probability or expectation regarding an event or outcome. Example: "Given the current circumstances, it is not likely to rain tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it is not likely to work like that.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is not likely to bring better welfare on its own.

The Economist

It is not likely to work, however.

The New York Times

It is not likely to be.

The New York Times

And it is not likely to improve.

The New York Times

It is not likely to happen again.

The Guardian

It is not likely to capitulate now.

The Washington Post

And it is not likely to be solved soon.

The New York Times

But it is not likely to be forgotten there.

The New York Times

But it is not likely to do that.

The New York Times

It is not likely to happen anytime soon.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is not likely to", ensure the context clearly indicates what outcome is being assessed for probability. For example: "Given the evidence, "it is not likely to" rain today."

Common error

Avoid using "it is not likely to" when a stronger assertion is warranted. If evidence strongly suggests an outcome is impossible, use more definitive language like "it is impossible" or "it will not happen."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not likely to" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, expressing a low degree of probability or expectation. It softens a statement, indicating that something is improbable, but not impossible, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Academia

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not likely to" serves as a useful tool to express uncertainty or low probability about an event or outcome. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its grammatical function is correct. While commonly found in formal writing, news articles, and academic papers, it's essential to avoid overstating certainty and opt for stronger language when the context warrants it. Remember to choose more appropriate alternatives such as "it is unlikely to" or "chances are slim" based on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is unlikely that

Substitutes "likely" with "unlikely", creating a direct opposite.

it is improbable that

Replaces "likely" with "improbable", suggesting a lower probability.

it is doubtful that

Uses "doubtful" instead of "likely", implying uncertainty.

it is hardly possible that

Replaces "likely" with "hardly possible", suggesting a significant obstacle.

it is questionable whether

Replaces "likely" with "questionable", casting doubt on the outcome.

it is far from certain that

Emphasizes the uncertainty, suggesting a lack of confirmation.

it is not expected to

Focuses on expectations rather than probability, implying a deviation from what is anticipated.

chances are slim that

Uses a more colloquial expression to convey low probability.

it is against the odds that

Expresses improbability using the idiom 'against the odds', suggesting a challenge or unfavorable conditions.

it is a long shot that

Employs an idiomatic expression indicating a low chance of success.

FAQs

What does "it is not likely to" mean?

The phrase "it is not likely to" means that something is improbable or has a low chance of happening. It indicates an expectation that a particular outcome will probably not occur.

How can I use "it is not likely to" in a sentence?

You can use "it is not likely to" to express doubt about a future event. For example, "Given the economic climate, "it is not likely to" see rapid growth this year."

What can I say instead of "it is not likely to"?

You can use alternatives like "it is unlikely to", "it is improbable that", or "chances are slim" depending on the context.

Is "it is not likely to" the same as "it is likely not to"?

While both phrases express doubt, "it is not likely to" is generally preferred as it sounds more natural and idiomatic. "It is likely not to" is grammatically correct but less common.