likely the same

USAGE SUMMARY

"likely the same" is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It is usually used when referring to the probability of a certain thing being the same as something else (e.g., the likelihood that two different things have the same result). For example: I heard that the team played differently this time, but their results were likely the same as last time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The conditions that drove the evolution were likely the same.

The New York Times - Science

The answer for both situations is likely the same: for the sake of expression.

Princeton University

It would have haunted a military trial, too, with likely the same result.

The Washington Post

The faux engagement ring Josh gives Raquel is likely the same one that features in the episode two flashback.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Quite likely, the same result we have today, but with a nation even more divided and confused and embittered.

The New York Times

Hotwire had a very similar deal in the same area for $351 — most likely the same hotel.

The New York Times - Travel

This failure is likely the same type of micro-crack as that observed in Figures 7a and b.

Nature

It must recognize, for example, that an "address" field is likely the same as a "street address" field.

MIT Technology Review

Getting rid of that debt might mean default or, more likely, the same thing by another name: inflation.

The Economist

These mixed-metal compounds have most likely the same R¯3symmetry as the high-temperature phase of undoped perovskite-type [C2H5NH3][Mg HCOO 3].

Vibrational Spectroscopy

But it's likely the same concertgoers will hunker down happily to concerts of Elliott Carter and Steve Reich, too, with no sense of anything odd or amiss.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "likely the same", ensure that there is a reasonable basis for the assumption of similarity. Avoid using it for mere speculation without any supporting evidence.

Common error

Avoid using "likely the same" when the evidence suggests only a remote possibility. Opt for weaker terms like "possibly" or "potentially" to reflect the true level of uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely the same" functions as a qualifying expression, indicating a degree of probability or likelihood regarding the sameness of two or more entities. It is typically used to express an informed opinion or reasonable assumption based on available evidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically valid and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

40%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "likely the same" serves as a qualifier, suggesting a reasonable probability of two or more things being identical or very similar. Ludwig AI validates that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely utilized. Its neutral register makes it adaptable to various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While absolute certainty is not claimed, the phrase conveys an informed opinion grounded in available evidence. Alternatives like "probably identical" or "possibly the same" can be employed to adjust the level of certainty expressed. When using "likely the same", make sure there is a reasonable basis for the assumption and avoid overstating the likelihood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probably identical

Implies a high degree of certainty that two things are the same.

most likely identical

Emphasizes the high probability of two things being the same.

very likely identical

Similar to "most likely identical" but may suggest slightly less certainty.

potentially the same

Suggests that two things could be the same, but there's no strong evidence.

conceivably identical

Indicates that it's possible for two things to be the same, but it's not very probable.

possibly the same

Expresses a weaker level of certainty than "likely".

arguably the same

Suggests the similarity is open to debate or interpretation.

apparently identical

Indicates that something appears to be the same based on initial observation.

presumably identical

Implies that something is assumed to be the same based on available information.

seemingly identical

Suggests that two things appear to be the same, but further investigation may be needed.

FAQs

What does "likely the same" mean?

The phrase "likely the same" indicates a reasonable probability that two or more things are identical or very similar. It suggests a degree of certainty, but not absolute proof.

How can I use "likely the same" in a sentence?

You can use "likely the same" to compare objects, events, or ideas. For example: "The errors in both reports are "likely the same", suggesting a common source."

What are some alternatives to "likely the same"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "probably identical", "possibly the same", or "seemingly identical". The best choice will depend on the level of certainty you wish to express.

Is it better to say "probably the same" or "likely the same"?

Both "probably the same" and "likely the same" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference, although "likely" may imply a slightly stronger degree of certainty than "probably".