it is only likely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is only likely" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a possibility or probability that something may happen, but not with certainty. Example: "Given the current weather patterns, it is only likely that we will experience rain later this evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

East Dorset council opposed the plan, complaining that "this will create work to comply with and...add no value at all". Its chief executive David McIntosh wrote: "Rather it is only likely to result in requests and therefore further work when the few people who bother to look at it ask for further clarification". Mr McIntosh also called for the Freedom of Information Act to be revisited.

BBC

While many agree it is a "good start" for the social-network giant's new approach to its mobile presence, lots of reviewers also admit it is only likely to appeal to Facebook's most dedicated users.

BBC

And it is only likely to get worse.

The Guardian

The survey suggests the momentum is with Romney and it is only likely to pick up after Tuesday's primaries.

The Guardian

"Unless the authorities also start addressing the root causes of the violence, it is only likely to get worse".

The Guardian

Hope springs eternal among Mexico's fans, writes Johanna Tuckman, even if they know it is only likely to end in bitterness and defeat.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

As for the private sector, it's only likely to invest in projects that come with a lucrative stream of revenue, like toll roads, which have not proved as successful as their promoters had hoped.

The New York Times

"It's only likely we will find more deepwater resources".

The New York Times

"If it looks bad now for middle-income families, those who turned out to vote for him, it's only likely to get worse [with Trump as president].

The Guardian

"More worrying, the report indicates that this disruption flows from new flight trends, so it's only likely to get worse".

The Guardian - Business

Baggio Leung, another umbrella movement alumnus who backs independence, was also vague about how it might be achieved but hinted it was only likely to happen if the Communist party collapsed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is only likely" to express a guarded prediction or expectation, acknowledging that other outcomes are possible. It's best when you have some evidence but not a guarantee.

Common error

Avoid using "it is only likely" when the outcome is highly certain or already confirmed. This phrase implies a degree of doubt, so it's inappropriate for established facts or near-guaranteed events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only likely" functions as a modal adjunct, expressing a degree of probability or expectation that something may occur. As shown by Ludwig, this expression is commonly used to introduce uncertainty or to qualify a statement. The term "only" here acts to moderate the level of confidence in the likelihood.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is only likely" is a versatile phrase used to express a moderate degree of probability or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse sources, particularly in News & Media. When writing, use this phrase to introduce a prediction, but with caution, as it implies some uncertainty. Alternatives like "it is merely probable" or "it is just likely" can be used to convey similar meanings with subtle variations. Ludwig's examples provide a solid basis for understanding its application and nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is merely probable

Replaces "only likely" with "merely probable", suggesting a slightly weaker degree of likelihood.

it is just likely

Substitutes "only" with "just", offering a more casual tone while retaining similar meaning.

it is quite probable

Replaces "only likely" with "quite probable", indicating a higher degree of certainty.

it is reasonably likely

Inserts "reasonably" to emphasize the logical basis for the likelihood.

it is fairly possible

Uses "fairly possible" instead of "only likely", focusing on the possibility rather than the probability.

it is potentially going to

Shifts the focus to a future action, expressing a potential outcome.

it could plausibly happen

Uses "plausibly happen" to suggest the event is believable and could occur.

the chances are good that

Rephrases the statement to emphasize the good odds of something occurring.

there's a good possibility

Focuses on the existence of a favorable chance or prospect.

it is anticipated that

Emphasizes an expectation based on prior knowledge or evidence.

FAQs

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

Use "it is only likely" to express a prediction or expectation that something might happen, without absolute certainty. Example: "Given the current trends, "it is only likely" that sales will increase next quarter."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is only likely"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it is merely probable", "it is just likely", or "it is quite probable", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "it is likely" and "it is only likely"?

While both express probability, "it is only likely" suggests a more cautious or limited degree of certainty compared to the more general "it is likely". The "only" adds a touch of reservation.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "it is only likely"?

It's inappropriate when the outcome is virtually guaranteed or already known. Using "it is only likely" in such cases would undermine the certainty of the situation. For example, do not say ""it is only likely" that the sun will rise tomorrow".