likely to be small

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely to be small" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the probability or expectation that something will be of a small size or amount. Example: "The results of the experiment are likely to be small, given the limited sample size we used."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These are likely to be small blips.

The New York Times

Camber effects appear likely to be small.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

However, this offset is likely to be small.

Harvard University

The overall effect is therefore likely to be small.

The Guardian

But any undiscovered benefit is likely to be small.

The New York Times

They are likely to be small and underweight.

The Guardian

However, such benefits are likely to be small.

Resource and Energy Economics

Design hotel properties are likely to be small.

The New York Times

But their impact on earnings is likely to be small.

The New York Times

In practice, the impact is likely to be small.

The Economist

But the margin is likely to be small.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "likely to be small", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being evaluated for size or impact. Providing specific details can enhance clarity and prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "likely to be small" when there is no supporting evidence or when the outcome is highly uncertain. Overstating the likelihood can mislead the audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely to be small" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun by describing its anticipated size or impact. It conveys a prediction or expectation, rather than a definitive statement. This is shown in Ludwig where this phrase is often used to qualify potential outcomes or effects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

43%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "likely to be small" is a common and grammatically correct way to express the expectation that something will be limited in size, impact, or degree. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and usability across various contexts. Analysis reveals its frequent use in News & Media and Scientific domains, serving the purpose of cautious assessment and expectation management. Alternatives like "probably small" or "expected to be small" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. When employing this phrase, clarity and supporting evidence are key to avoiding misinterpretations. Overall, "likely to be small" is a versatile and valuable phrase for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probably small

Replaces "likely" with "probably", indicating a slightly lower degree of certainty.

expected to be small

Substitutes "likely" with "expected", suggesting a prediction based on available information.

unlikely to be large

Expresses the idea using a double negative, emphasizing the lack of likelihood of being large.

predicted to be small

Similar to "expected", but implies a more formal or scientific prediction.

inclined to be small

Suggests a tendency toward being small, rather than a definite expectation.

bound to be small

Implies a strong likelihood or inevitability of being small.

set to be small

Suggests a predetermined or arranged outcome of being small.

tends to be small

Indicates a general pattern or trend of being small.

has a high chance of being small

A more verbose alternative that directly states the high probability.

almost certainly small

Emphasizes the certainty of something being small.

FAQs

How can I use "likely to be small" in a sentence?

You can use "likely to be small" to describe the expected size, impact, or degree of something. For example, "The financial impact of the new policy is "likely to be small"".

What are some alternatives to saying "likely to be small"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "probably small", "expected to be small", or "unlikely to be large". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "likely to be small"?

It's appropriate when you have some evidence or reason to believe that something will be limited in size or effect, but you cannot state it with absolute certainty. Avoid using it when the outcome is entirely unknown.

Is there a difference between "likely to be small" and "certain to be small"?

Yes, "likely to be small" indicates a probability, while "certain to be small" suggests a guaranteed outcome. The former implies a degree of uncertainty, while the latter indicates complete assurance.