it is very likely

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is very likely" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express something has a high chance of happening or being true. For example, "It is very 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

"I think it is very likely".

The New York Times

It is very likely to become hot, more than 100oC.

Princeton University

Now it is very likely much more will be needed.

University of California, Berkeley

Indeed, it is very likely to be modestly positive.

The New York Times

It is very likely impossible to get them off".

The Guardian

It is very likely, because the price is free".

The New York Times

Moreover, it is very likely that this possibility is ignored by numerous parents.

Archives de Pédiatrie

In contrast, it is very likely that undersized systems are the cause of strong system degradation.

Applied Thermal Engineering

While not yet proven, it is very likely that irisin has similar effects in humans.

Harvard University

It is very likely this has nothing to do with the autotools.

Yale University

In a large-scale room, it is very likely that load may not be evenly distributed.

Energy and Buildings

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is very likely" to express a strong probability based on available evidence or reasoning. Ensure the context supports the level of certainty you are conveying.

Common error

Avoid using "it is very likely" when the situation only suggests a possibility. Ensure you have reasonable grounds to support such a claim; otherwise, opt for phrases expressing lower certainty, like "it is possible" or "it may be the case".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is very likely" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a statement, indicating a high degree of probability or expectation. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is very likely" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a high degree of probability or expectation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, especially within scientific literature, news reports, and academic writings. While versatile, it's important to ensure that the level of certainty conveyed aligns with the available evidence, and to avoid overstating likelihood without sufficient support. Alternatives such as "it is highly probable" or "chances are high" can offer subtle variations in formality or emphasis to better suit the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It is most likely

Suggests the highest probability among a set of possibilities.

It is extremely likely

Emphasizes an even stronger likelihood than "very likely".

It is highly probable

Emphasizes a strong degree of probability, more formal than "it is very likely".

It is highly likely

Highlights a high degree of likelihood, comparable to "it is very likely".

It is quite probable

Indicates a good chance of something happening, slightly less forceful.

It is quite likely

Expresses a good chance of something being true or happening, similar in strength.

It is almost certain

Indicates a very high degree of confidence, approaching certainty.

Chances are high

An informal way of saying something is very probable.

It is expected that

Focuses on anticipation or prediction, implying a strong likelihood.

It is reasonable to assume

Suggests a logical basis for believing something is likely.

FAQs

What does "it is very likely" mean?

The phrase "it is very likely" indicates a high probability or chance of something happening or being true. It suggests a strong degree of certainty based on available information or evidence.

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

You can use "it is very likely" to express a strong probability or expectation. For example, "Given the current weather patterns, "it is very likely" that we will have rain tomorrow."

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

Alternatives to "it is very likely" include "it is highly probable", "it is quite likely", or "chances are high", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

Yes, "it is very likely" expresses a stronger degree of probability than simply "it is likely". The addition of "very" emphasizes a higher level of certainty or expectation.