likely less

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely less" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing probabilities or comparisons, indicating that something is probably to a lesser degree or amount. Example: "The new model is likely less efficient than the previous version, based on initial tests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most likely, less choice for aspiring artists.

The Guardian

The remaining 35% will be increasingly difficult to reach, and likely less interested in using a smartphone.

The Guardian - Tech

At some point in this frantic and peculiar season, a less likely, less expected story may arise from the chaos.

The New York Times - Sports

"He was likely less emotionally attached to this decision," said Budd Bugatch, senior vice president at Raymond James & Associates, an investment firm in St .Petersburg, Fla.

The New York Times

At that time, constructive criticism was likely less practiced than it is today, and it remains a skill that many of us lack.

The New Yorker

But likely less profitable.

TechCrunch

Cross-linked proteins were more likely less susceptible to proteolysis.

International Aquatic Research

On average, the compliers to the instrument are likely less advantaged than the non-compliers.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

No, this story is likely less David vs. Goliath than it is David vs. David.

TechCrunch

The real number is likely less than a quarter of that, The Washington Post reports.

TechCrunch

For Apple, international growth is likely less of a challenge than it is for smaller companies.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "likely less" to express a considered judgment about a reduced probability or quantity. Ensure the context makes it clear what is being compared.

Common error

Avoid using "likely less" when an absolute statement is more appropriate. For instance, instead of saying "The project is likely less successful," consider specifying the area of reduced success or quantifying the likely reduction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely less" functions as an adverbial modifier indicating probability in conjunction with a comparative adjective. It suggests a degree of uncertainty alongside a comparison, indicating something is probably smaller, fewer, or to a lesser extent. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

55%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "likely less" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a probable reduction or decrease. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is versatile, appearing in diverse contexts from scientific literature to news articles and even informal wikis. When using "likely less", ensure clarity in your comparison and avoid using it when an absolute statement is more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "probably less" or "most likely reduced" to fine-tune your intended meaning. It is a useful tool for expressing nuanced comparisons based on probability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probably less

Emphasizes the probability aspect more directly, slightly less formal.

most likely reduced

Highlights the reduction aspect, adding a degree of certainty.

almost certainly lower

Stronger emphasis on certainty and reduction, suitable for persuasive writing.

conceivably smaller

Focuses on a smaller quantity, introducing a level of possibility.

possibly diminished

Emphasizes a reduction in importance or value, more formal.

potentially lessened

Highlights the potential for reduction, suitable for predictive contexts.

plausibly decreased

Suggests a decrease that is believable, often used in scientific contexts.

it is questionable if there is as much

Introduces doubt regarding the quantity, adding skepticism.

the chances are lower

More conversational and direct expression of lower probability.

it is not as probable

Formal alternative indicating a lower degree of probability.

FAQs

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

Use "likely less" to indicate a probable decrease or reduction. For example, "The new strategy is "likely less" effective than the previous one" suggests a probable reduction in effectiveness.

What are some alternatives to "likely less"?

You can use alternatives such as "probably less", "most likely reduced", or "almost certainly lower" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "likely less"?

Yes, "likely less" is grammatically correct. It functions as a comparative phrase, indicating that something is probably to a lesser degree.

What is the difference between "likely less" and "less likely"?

"Likely less" suggests a probable reduction in something measurable. "Less likely" indicates a lower probability of something occurring. For example, "The impact is likely less than expected" versus "It is less likely to rain tomorrow".