it will likely rain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it will likely rain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the probability of rain in a weather forecast or casual conversation about the weather. Example: "According to the meteorologist, it will likely rain this afternoon, so don't forget your umbrella."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It will likely rain this afternoon, with highs in the low 40s.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It'll probably rain.

Independent

"Yes, it'll probably rain, Bubs.

The New Yorker

It will likely divide the G.O.P.

The New Yorker

And it will likely get worse.

Forbes

It will likely go on the block.

Forbes

"It will likely settle the case".

Science Magazine

It will likely last less time though.

WikiHow

It will likely be on the test.

WikiHow

It will likely splatter, so prepare yourself.

WikiHow

It will likely creep out your date.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "it will likely rain" with specific timing or location details to provide more actionable information (e.g. "It will likely rain in the afternoon", "It will likely rain near the coast").

Common error

Avoid using "it will likely rain" when the chance of rain is minimal. Opt for phrases like "it might rain" or "there's a slight chance of rain" to better reflect the uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it will likely rain" functions as a statement of probability about a future event. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It communicates an expectation that rainfall is more than possible but not entirely certain.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it will likely rain" is a grammatically sound and neutrally-toned way to express a reasonable expectation of future rainfall. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, it finds frequent use in News & Media, Wiki, and scientific contexts. Alternative phrasing, such as "it's likely to rain" or "rain is expected", can offer subtle variations in tone or emphasis. When using the phrase, it's best to provide specific details and avoid overstating the certainty of rain.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's likely to rain

Replaces "will" with "is going to", creating a more conversational tone, but maintaining a similar level of certainty.

it probably will rain

Swaps the position of "likely" and "will", emphasizing the probability aspect.

it's expected to rain

Uses "expected" instead of "likely", indicating an anticipation based on some evidence.

rain is expected

This is a more concise way of saying that rain is anticipated.

there's a chance of rain

Indicates a possibility of rain, but with a slightly lower degree of certainty compared to "likely".

rain is probable

Substitutes "probable" for "likely", conveying a more formal tone.

we anticipate rain

Shifts the focus to the speaker's anticipation, rather than a general forecast.

rain is on the cards

An idiomatic expression indicating that rain is a distinct possibility.

rain is in the forecast

Specifies that the weather forecast predicts rain.

a shower is expected

Indicates a brief period of rain is anticipated.

FAQs

How can I use "it will likely rain" in a sentence?

You can use "it will likely rain" to express a reasonable expectation of rainfall. For example, "The forecast suggests "it will likely rain" tomorrow, so bring an umbrella".

What are some alternatives to "it will likely rain"?

Alternatives include "it's likely to rain", "rain is expected", or "there's a chance of rain", depending on the level of certainty.

Which is more certain, "it will likely rain" or "it might rain"?

"It will likely rain" suggests a higher probability than "it might rain". "Might" indicates a possibility, whereas "likely" suggests a stronger expectation based on available information.

Is "it will probably rain" the same as "it will likely rain"?

Yes, "it will probably rain" and ""it will likely rain"" are very similar in meaning. Both express a reasonable expectation of rainfall. The choice often comes down to personal preference.