likely effects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely effects" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential outcomes or consequences of a particular action, event, or situation. Example: "The researchers are studying the likely effects of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some crucial political steps are required, like the Pentagon's review of the likely effects of repeal, due by December.

The New York Times

Sanders talked about the Senate bill's likely effects in McConnell's home state.

The New Yorker

"Not surprisingly, these movements have kindled a debate on their likely effects on trade.

The Guardian - Business

While an earthquake cannot be predicted, however, computer modeling can be used to describe its likely effects.

The New York Times

Asked to describe the likely effects, Thomas A. Scully, administrator of the Medicare program, said: "You'll have mad doctors.

The New York Times

Some scientific groups are concerned that insufficient attention has been paid to the new regulation and its likely effects.

The New York Times

He has analysed it and proved its authenticity and guessed at its likely effects if taken: a stimulant.

The Guardian

How much of the warming is due to humans and what will be the likely effects?

The New York Times

What are the likely effects if you are planning a holiday?

Independent

Ideologues opposed to Bush were pleased to propose this as what psychologists call a "fast and frugal" means of assessing the likely effects of his economic policies.

The New Yorker

A 1990 law requires the president to give Congress every four years its best assessment of the likely effects of climate change.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing future scenarios, use "likely effects" to introduce well-reasoned predictions based on available data or analysis. Be specific about the factors influencing the likelihood of these effects.

Common error

Avoid presenting "likely effects" as definite outcomes. Use qualifiers like "may", "could", or "are projected to" to maintain appropriate levels of uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely effects" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "likely" modifies the noun "effects". According to Ludwig, it's grammatically sound and suitable for discussing potential outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "likely effects" serves as a grammatically correct and common way to discuss anticipated outcomes across diverse fields. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for discussing potential outcomes. It appears most frequently in news and media, scientific research, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that you maintain an appropriate level of certainty by using qualifiers and avoid presenting the effects as definite outcomes. Consider related phrases like ""probable effects"" or "expected consequences" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probable effects

Replaces "likely" with "probable", suggesting a slightly higher degree of certainty.

expected effects

Substitutes "likely" with "expected", implying anticipation based on past experience or knowledge.

anticipated effects

Emphasizes the act of predicting or foreseeing the effects.

potential effects

Focuses on the possibility of effects occurring, without necessarily implying a high probability.

possible consequences

Replaces "effects" with "consequences", highlighting the results or outcomes of an action or event.

foreseeable outcomes

Highlights the ability to predict the results or consequences in advance.

predicted impacts

Uses "impacts" instead of "effects", often used in scientific or environmental contexts.

projected results

Emphasizes a formal estimation or calculation of the effects.

imminent repercussions

Conveys a sense of immediate and significant consequences.

ensuing ramifications

Highlights the cascading or far-reaching effects that follow a particular event.

FAQs

How can I use "likely effects" in a sentence?

The phrase "likely effects" is used to discuss outcomes that are reasonably expected to occur. For example: "Researchers are studying the "probable effects" of the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "likely effects"?

You can use phrases such as "expected consequences", "potential impacts", or "anticipated outcomes" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "likely effects" or "possible effects"?

The choice depends on the level of certainty you want to convey. "Likely effects" suggests a higher probability than "possible effects". Use "possible effects" when discussing potential outcomes that are not necessarily probable.

What is the difference between "effects" and "consequences" when discussing "likely effects"?

"Effects" generally refers to any result of an action or cause, while "consequences" often implies a more significant or far-reaching result. Therefore, "likely consequences" might suggest more substantial or impactful outcomes than "likely effects".