likely chance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely chance" is not correct and is generally considered redundant in written English.
It can be used when discussing the probability of an event occurring, but it is better to choose a more precise expression. Example: "There is a likely chance of rain tomorrow, so we should bring umbrellas."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Because of how our mirror neurons work and our need for consistency, safety and bonding, there is a wildly likely chance that they will say, "I like you too".

Huffington Post

Perth and Newcastle – the latter's impressive weekend win over the Wanderers aside – are looking like the only two clubs not in with a likely chance of finals football.

The Guardian - Sport

Partners at those firms had advised the companies that the deal had a likely chance of being approved by telecommunications and antitrust regulators.

The New York Times

If you remember these events, there is a likely chance that you will recall a photo of the point, not the moving image, or video, of the moment.

The New York Times

To meet the ambition of a "likely" chance of avoiding more than 2C warming, the figure needs to be reduced to 42 gigatonnes by 2030, and a carbon-free world economy in the second half of this century, it said.

The Guardian

Labor was considered to be the most likely chance for support, given it has a similar package to limit the generous tax concessions put in place by former Howard government treasurer Peter Costello.

The Guardian

"We always had teams that could close out pretty well — and the fact that we couldn't do it definitely made it clear to me that this was a likely chance of a last game".

The New York Times - Sports

In a letter, Mr. Soares did not challenge the findings by the earlier inquiries, but said their conclusions were based only on the standard that there was a "reasonably likely" chance that Mr. Paterson intentionally lied in his testimony.

The New York Times

To reach zero emissions by 2050 (and for a likely chance to stay below a rise of 1.5C), we need to scale up and accelerate the move towards 100% renewable energy, and replicate globally what is already being created in many communities, cities and regions: a fossil-free society based on a customer-centric and inclusive energy infrastructure.

The Guardian

FIA adviser Mr Piquet Jr also says that at that meeting, you pointed out a specific place on the circuit where he was to have the accident and said it was because it was the furthest away from any of the safety or lifting equipment, and gave the most likely chance of a safety car being deployed.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Based on the first-quarter declines and the less-than-likely chance that sales at the end of this year will match last year's surge, I predict a sales decline of 1 million units.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "likely chance" in formal writing. Opt for more concise and grammatically sound alternatives such as "high probability" or "strong likelihood".

Common error

Using "likely chance" introduces redundancy, as "chance" inherently implies a degree of likelihood. Streamline your writing by using just "likely" or "chance" with a modifier.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely chance" functions as a noun phrase intended to describe a possibility or probability. However, Ludwig AI indicates that it is often considered redundant due to "chance" already implying likelihood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

22%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "likely chance" is frequently used, as demonstrated by Ludwig's numerous examples, it's considered grammatically incorrect due to redundancy. According to Ludwig AI, the word "chance" inherently implies likelihood. Therefore, it's advisable to opt for more precise and grammatically sound alternatives like "high probability" or "strong likelihood", especially in formal writing. The phrase is most common in news and media, but less appropriate for academic or professional contexts where clarity and precision are paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

high probability

Replaces "chance" with the more formal "probability", indicating a statistical measure of likelihood.

strong possibility

Substitutes "chance" with "possibility", emphasizing the potential for something to occur.

good likelihood

Replaces "chance" with "likelihood", suggesting a favorable prospect.

realistic prospect

Replaces both words with a term focused on the realism of the potential outcome.

distinct possibility

Replaces with a stronger expression of the possibility, implying a clear potential for something to happen.

plausible opportunity

Shifts the focus to an opportunity that is believable and has a good chance of happening.

real potential

Emphasizes the genuine possibility that something can develop or happen.

credible prospect

Indicates that the possibility is believable and worth considering.

promising outlook

Focuses on the positive and hopeful aspect of the potential outcome.

reasonable expectation

Suggests a belief that something will happen based on logical reasoning and evidence.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to use "likely chance"?

While commonly used, especially in informal contexts, "likely chance" is often considered redundant. The word "chance" already implies likelihood, making "likely" somewhat unnecessary. It's generally better to use just "chance" or find a more precise way to express the probability.

What are some alternatives to "likely chance"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "high probability", "strong likelihood", or "good possibility". These alternatives provide a more grammatically sound and professional tone.

How can I improve the clarity of my writing when expressing probability?

Instead of "likely chance", consider quantifying the probability with terms like "high", "low", or "moderate". You can also use percentages or fractions to provide a more precise estimate of the likelihood. For example, "There is a 70% chance of rain" is clearer than "There is a likely chance of rain".

When is it acceptable to use "likely chance"?

While not strictly correct, "likely chance" might be acceptable in informal conversation or less formal writing where clarity isn't paramount. However, in academic, professional, or formal contexts, it's advisable to choose a more precise and grammatically correct alternative.