it would be likely

USAGE SUMMARY

"it would be likely" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that something is probable or reasonably expected based on available facts or evidence. For example: "Given the increasing popularity of the show, it would be likely that ticket prices will go up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The premium-support model may well be better than the current Medicare system, but its supporters oversell what it would be likely to accomplish.

The New York Times

Britain was worried that, with its large financial center in London, it would be likely to face more calls on its taxpayers.

The New York Times

However, the court did not order the Church of Scientology to shut down, ruling that it would be likely to continue its activities anyway "outside any legal framework".

Independent

But Iran's primary goal would be quickly rebuilding — and probably accelerating — its nuclear program, and thus, according to these assessments, it would be likely to try to avoid inviting a punishing second wave of attacks by the United States.

The New York Times

And if it engaged us, perhaps, we felt it would be likely to engage others".

The New York Times - Arts

If he chooses not to sign, it would be likely to do tremendous damage to the state's application.

The New York Times

Sentiment is the Trust's greatest friend; without it, after all, it would be likely to have no members.

The Guardian

However, this route would pass through unstable Kurdish territory, and it would be likely to cost around $2.9 billion, by far the most expensive western option.

The Economist

One allows authorities, including ministers, to withhold information if in their opinion it would be likely to "prejudice the effective conduct of public affairs".

The Economist

Mr Turner said in September that he would oppose compulsion on the basis that it would be likely to reduce wages paid to employees.

Independent

Even a decision to cap ELA could have a dramatic effect, since it would be likely to trigger capital controls and limits on withdrawals from banks.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it would be likely", ensure the context provides sufficient evidence or reasoning to support the likelihood you're suggesting.

Common error

Avoid using "it would be likely" when the evidence is weak or speculative. Opt for phrases that convey more uncertainty, such as "it might be possible" or "it could happen" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it would be likely" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to express the probability or likelihood of an event or situation. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, from news reports to scientific articles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it would be likely" is a versatile expression used to convey probability or expectation across various contexts. As indicated by Ludwig, it's considered grammatically correct and is frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure your context provides a solid foundation for the likelihood you're suggesting. Alternatives such as "it is probable that" or "it is expected that" can be used to adjust the level of certainty or formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is probable that

Emphasizes a higher degree of certainty or statistical likelihood.

it is expected that

Implies anticipation or a conventional understanding of an event.

it is anticipated that

Suggests a formal expectation, often based on prior planning.

it is reasonable to assume

Introduces an assumption based on logical reasoning.

it is plausible that

Highlights the believability or credibility of a scenario.

it is conceivable that

Indicates a possibility, though perhaps remote.

chances are that

An informal way to express a moderate level of probability.

it is liable to

Suggests that something is inclined or predisposed to happen, often with a negative connotation.

it is apt to

Indicates a natural tendency or suitability.

it may well be that

Expresses possibility with a touch of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "it would be likely" in a sentence?

Use "it would be likely" to express a reasonable expectation based on current evidence or understanding. For instance, "Given the forecast, "it would be likely" to rain this afternoon."

What are some alternatives to saying "it would be likely"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it is probable that", "it is expected that", or "chances are that", depending on the level of formality and certainty you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "it would be likely that"?

Yes, "it would be likely that" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It indicates a reasonable expectation or probability based on the available information.

What is the difference between "it would be likely" and "it is likely"?

"It is likely" suggests a higher degree of certainty and is more direct. "It would be likely" implies a conditional or hypothetical situation, suggesting the likelihood is contingent on certain factors.