it seems likely that

USAGE SUMMARY

'it seems likely that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a probable conclusion or expectation that you draw from the evidence presented. For example: "It seems likely that the new vaccine will be successful in preventing the virus from spreading."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It seems likely that its resolutions will be defeated.

The Economist

It seems likely that it won't.

The New Yorker

It seems likely that they will be.

The New York Times - Arts

However, it seems likely that trans fats' days are numbered.

Harvard University

It seems likely that the issue will be debated.

The New York Times

At this time it seems likely that while the Pres.

The New Yorker

It seems likely that there is an ulterior motive.

The Economist

It seems likely that Bichitr was reared at the court.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It seems likely that Pakistani interrogators use torture.

Independent

It seems likely that they simply fell in love.

Independent

But it seems likely that the method is similar.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "it seems likely that" with specific evidence to strengthen your argument. For example: "Given the current data, it seems likely that the trend will continue."

Common error

Avoid using "it seems likely that" when you have conclusive evidence. In such cases, a more assertive statement is appropriate, as this phrase is best used to present assumptions based on evidence rather than established facts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it seems likely that" functions as an epistemic modal, expressing a judgment about the probability of a proposition. It introduces a statement that is believed to be true based on available evidence, but with a degree of uncertainty. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

31%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it seems likely that" is a versatile phrase used to express probability based on current evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across a spectrum of contexts, including news, science, and academia. When using the phrase, consider the level of certainty you want to convey and whether a more direct or assertive statement might be more appropriate. While highly adaptable, it's essential to use this phrase when you have some, but not conclusive, proof to support your claim.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is probable that

Replaces "seems" with "is", focusing on the probability aspect directly.

it is plausible that

Substitutes "likely" with "plausible", suggesting a reasonable but not certain possibility.

it is reasonable to assume that

Introduces an element of assumption based on available information.

one can expect that

Shifts from likelihood to expectation, implying a degree of anticipation.

chances are that

Uses an informal expression indicating a high probability.

it is anticipated that

Emphasizes anticipation, often used in more formal contexts.

the odds are that

Similar to 'chances are', indicating a probability based on available evidence.

it is to be expected that

Highlights that something aligns with expectations or previous trends.

the prognosis is that

Used specifically when referring to expected outcomes, particularly in medical or predictive contexts.

indications suggest that

Focuses on how current signs point to a likely conclusion.

FAQs

What does "it seems likely that" mean?

The phrase "it seems likely that" indicates that something is probable based on the available evidence, but it's not a certainty. It suggests a reasoned conclusion given the current information.

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

You can use "it seems likely that" to introduce a prediction or assumption. For example, "It seems likely that the company will announce record profits this quarter."

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

Alternatives include phrases such as "it is probable that", "it is plausible that", or "chances are that", depending on the level of certainty you want to convey.

When is it not appropriate to use "it seems likely that"?

Avoid using "it seems likely that" when you have definitive proof or established facts. In those cases, a direct statement is more appropriate than a qualified assertion. Reserve this phrase for situations involving inference and probability.