likely to be average

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely to be average" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing expectations or predictions about something being of average quality or performance. Example: "Based on the data we have, the results of the experiment are likely to be average."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Having larger grid cell size saves the processing time; however, the information is likely to be averaged in a larger area, thus resulting in loss of information.

Journal of Modern Transportation

One in four Britons consider themselves to be a very good lover, although they are most likely to think themselves to be average in this respect.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Forecasts for the southern half of the UK favour below average sunshine amounts, with mean daytime temperatures about four times more likely to be below average than above," said a spokeswoman.

The Guardian

Also, this figure records average use across all demographics, and my hunch is that gay men are likely to be above average phone checkers.

Huffington Post

In reality, my children and yours are likely to be reasonably average in terms of looks, behaviour, intelligence and charm.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As a result, the harvest is likely to be below average: 5 million to 15 million tons of wheat available for export, compared with 17 million or 18 million tons in an average year.

The New York Times

That's because 75 per cent of households are still on their supplier's standard variable tariff, even though it's likely to be on average £180 a year more expensive than the cheapest tariff.

Independent

The study says that among seven-year-olds, August-born children are more than three times as likely to be "below average" as September-born children.

BBC

Though figures on admissions revenue were not available, the numbers are likely to be below average.

Los Angeles Times

Therefore the exposure to ethanol is likely to be on average 12 minutes per healthcare worker per shift.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Note that none of the cells in our simulated population is likely to be this average cell, because every parameter value is likely to deviate a little (CV = 5 %) from the basal value.

BMC Systems Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "likely to be average" when you want to convey a neutral expectation, avoiding overly positive or negative connotations. It's suitable for forecasts, assessments, and general estimations.

Common error

Avoid using "likely to be average" as a filler phrase when more precise descriptions are possible. Quantify the average where feasible, or specify the aspect in which something is expected to be average for a more informative statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely to be average" functions as a descriptive phrase. As determined by Ludwig, it indicates a prediction or expectation that something will conform to a typical standard or norm. It modifies a noun by expressing the probability of its ordinariness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "likely to be average" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase that conveys an expectation of typical or unremarkable performance. As Ludwig indicates, this phrase is suitable for contexts where a neutral forecast or assessment is needed. Since there are no direct examples, it's important to use the phrase judiciously and consider more specific alternatives when greater precision is required. While versatile, it functions best when the context provides a clear understanding of what "average" refers to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expected to be typical

Focuses on the expectation of something conforming to a common pattern or standard.

predicted to be normal

Emphasizes a forecast of usual or standard behavior.

anticipated to be standard

Highlights an expectation of meeting a defined level or requirement.

probably will be ordinary

Uses "ordinary" to describe something that is not special or exceptional.

apt to be unexceptional

Uses "unexceptional" to imply a lack of remarkable qualities.

tends to be commonplace

Emphasizes the common occurrence or prevalence of something.

inclined to be run-of-the-mill

Uses the idiom "run-of-the-mill" to indicate ordinariness or lack of distinction.

expected to be middle-of-the-road

Uses "middle-of-the-road" to convey a balanced, non-extreme nature.

likely to be mediocre

Directly suggests a moderate or low quality.

possibly will be unremarkable

Indicates that something is unlikely to attract attention or be memorable.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "likely to be average" to sound more formal?

Consider using phrases like "expected to be typical", "predicted to be normal", or "anticipated to be standard". These alternatives offer a more professional tone while conveying a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "likely to be average" in writing?

It's suitable for forecasts, assessments, and general estimations where you want to convey a neutral expectation without overly positive or negative connotations. It's appropriate in situations where you want to highlight that something aligns with what is expected.

What does it mean when something is described as "likely to be average"?

It indicates that the subject is expected to perform or exist within a typical or unremarkable range. It doesn't stand out positively or negatively, aligning with common standards or norms.

Are there any situations where I should avoid using "likely to be average"?

Avoid using it as filler or when more specific, descriptive language can be used. Overuse can make writing seem vague or uninspired. If the context demands more precise information or stronger language, opt for a more definitive term.