likely scenarios

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely scenarios" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing potential outcomes or situations that are probable based on certain conditions. For example, "In the meeting, we discussed the likely scenarios for the project's future." Alternative expressions include "probable outcomes" and "plausible situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One of the more likely scenarios, for instance, is that a conservative Republican like Rick Perry is elected president in 2012 along with a Republican Congress.

The New York Times

In the most likely scenarios, climate change would cause some kind of regional or continental disruption, like a major crop failure; this disruption would cascade through the world's tightly connected economic and political systems to produce a global effect.

The New York Times

Project all likely scenarios.

The New York Times

But there may be much more likely scenarios.

The New Yorker

But the more likely scenarios are a loss for the banks.

The New York Times

"There were 13 likely scenarios," Benedict rumbled from beneath his Cumber-thatch.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

THE assumptions necessary to preserve the two-state slogan have blinded us to more likely scenarios.

The New York Times

The IPCC's worst case scenario was only about in the middle of what MIT calculated are likely scenarios.

The Guardian

What are some likely scenarios a soldier might face that could cause him or her to question whether killing is right or wrong?

The New York Times

Rather than just working with the most likely scenarios, they took into account the smaller chances of far more severe events unfolding.

The Guardian

The two most likely scenarios are that the panel of judges will either uphold both convictions or send one or both cases back for retrial.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "likely scenarios", provide context and supporting evidence to enhance credibility. Clearly outline the factors that contribute to the likelihood of each scenario.

Common error

Avoid presenting "likely scenarios" as certainties. Use language that reflects a degree of probability rather than absolute assurance to maintain accuracy and objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely scenarios" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "likely" modifies the noun "scenarios". According to Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to describe potential situations that are probable or expected. It serves to identify and categorize possible future events based on their probability of occurrence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "likely scenarios" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes potential future events with a reasonable probability of occurring. According to Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase, primarily used for analyzing, predicting, and preparing for possible outcomes across diverse fields like news, science, and business. While the register leans toward neutral and formal, the phrase maintains its effectiveness across various communication contexts. When employing this phrase, it is vital to support your statements with context and evidence, while clearly indicating a level of probability rather than absolute certainty. Common alternatives include "probable outcomes" and "plausible possibilities".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probable outcomes

Focuses on the results or consequences that are most expected.

plausible possibilities

Emphasizes that the situations are believable and could happen.

expected developments

Highlights the anticipated changes or events.

potential eventualities

Suggests possible future events or results.

foreseeable circumstances

Indicates situations that can be anticipated or predicted.

anticipated situations

Stresses the expectation of certain conditions arising.

credible prospects

Highlights potential scenarios that are believable and feasible.

realistic outlooks

Focuses on scenarios that are grounded in reality and practical considerations.

most predictable cases

Emphasizes the scenarios that are easiest to anticipate based on current information.

conceivable futures

Highlights potential scenarios that are imaginable or possible.

FAQs

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

You can use "likely scenarios" to discuss potential outcomes or situations that are probable based on certain conditions. For example, "The report outlines several "likely scenarios" for the company's future growth."

What are some alternatives to saying "likely scenarios"?

Alternatives to "likely scenarios" include "probable outcomes", "plausible possibilities", or "expected developments" depending on the specific context.

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

"Likely scenarios" suggests a higher degree of probability compared to "possible scenarios". Use "likely" when the scenarios are more probable and supported by evidence, while "possible" is suitable for scenarios that are merely conceivable.

What's the difference between "likely scenarios" and "potential outcomes"?

"Likely scenarios" refers to specific, plausible future events, while "potential outcomes" is a broader term encompassing all possible results, including those that are less probable. "Likely scenarios" suggests a more focused and realistic assessment than "potential outcomes".