likely prospects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely prospects" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential opportunities or candidates that are expected to yield positive outcomes or results. Example: "After reviewing the applications, we have identified several likely prospects for the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Some companies are finding it so difficult to track down good people, they need the government to help them, by mining its lists of those on jobseekers' allowance for likely prospects and funding a period of "experience" while the prospective employer makes up his or her mind.

The Guardian - Opinion

Soldiers would give chase to likely prospects.

The Guardian

It's not hard to discern the likely prospects of an even more liberal Liberal Party.

The New York Times

Then I developed a spreadsheet and called likely prospects for my shows.

The New York Times

In smaller markets, he said, the most likely prospects are the often-overlooked mom-and-pop advertisers.

The New York Times

A bumper winner last season, he saw off several other likely prospects to leave his trainer in a pleasant dilemma.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

The prospect of a radical shake up of the party is an ever more likely prospect, but what his premiership might look like has been a generally neglected subject.

Vice

Now Mercedes has decided the A-Class is worthy of a redesign, making it a likely prospect for the United States market, where it would compete against models like the BMW 1 Series.

The New York Times

He was always the least likely prospect.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You know, if this was a likely prospect.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Nor has anyone offered to introduce me to a likely prospect.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting options or candidates, use "likely prospects" to convey a sense of realistic optimism based on current data or assessment. It's suitable for formal reports or professional communications.

Common error

Avoid using "likely prospects" in very casual conversations. It can sound overly formal or stilted in everyday speech. Opt for simpler alternatives like "good candidates" or "possible choices".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely prospects" functions as a noun phrase, where "likely" modifies the noun "prospects". It typically identifies individuals or possibilities that are considered promising or probable based on current information. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "likely prospects" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to refer to individuals or opportunities that are considered promising or probable. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. It is best suited for formal or professional contexts, such as news reports or business communications, and should be used with consideration in more casual settings. Alternative phrases like "promising candidates" or "potential opportunities" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. Remember to consider your audience and the level of formality required when choosing to use "likely prospects".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

promising candidates

Focuses on the potential success or positive outcome associated with the candidates.

potential opportunities

Emphasizes the possible advantages or benefits that the opportunities may offer.

probable contenders

Highlights the likelihood of the candidates being in a competitive situation.

realistic possibilities

Suggests that the opportunities are grounded in reality and have a good chance of occurring.

viable options

Indicates that the choices are practical and capable of succeeding.

anticipated successes

Highlights the expectation of positive results in the near future.

expected beneficiaries

Focuses on those who are most likely to gain from a particular situation.

plausible applicants

Suggests that the applicants have a credible chance of being selected.

foreseeable candidates

Emphasizes that the candidates are predictable based on current information.

possible successors

Highlights the potential for these individuals to take over a role or position.

FAQs

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

"Likely prospects" is used to refer to candidates or opportunities that have a high chance of success or being chosen. For instance, "After the initial interviews, we identified three likely prospects for the marketing manager position."

What are some synonyms for "likely prospects"?

Alternatives to "likely prospects" include "promising candidates", "potential opportunities", or "probable contenders", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "likely prospects" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "likely prospects" is generally more suited for formal or professional settings. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives like "good choices" or "possible candidates" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "likely prospects" and "potential candidates"?

"Likely prospects" suggests a higher degree of probability or suitability based on current information, while "potential candidates" indicates a possibility that needs further evaluation. "Likely prospects" implies a stronger chance of success compared to "potential candidates".