likely to disappoint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely to disappoint" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used when expressing that something is expected to lead to a feeling of dissatisfaction or unhappiness. For example, "Given the previous incidents, the fans were likely to be disappointed with the team's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That limitation is likely to disappoint advocates who would like more affordable access extended to all households.

The New York Times

This is likely to disappoint.

The New York Times

But this year it is likely to disappoint.

The Economist

But, in practice, they are likely to disappoint.

The Economist

Such a formulation is likely to disappoint the church.

The New York Times

Which player is likely to disappoint the most?

The Guardian - Sport

As things stand, Iraq's oil production looks likely to disappoint all but the pessimists.

The Economist

But no matter the outcome, these elections are likely to disappoint.

The New York Times

You're likely to disappoint your users, which hurts return visits and word of mouth".

The New York Times

Sure the show might be bad, but it's certainly less likely to disappoint.

The Guardian

Of course, this lack of context is more likely to disappoint adults than children.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "likely to disappoint" when you want to express a reasonable expectation of a negative outcome, especially when managing expectations is crucial. For example, in project management, be upfront that a certain deadline is "likely to disappoint" stakeholders if overly optimistic estimates are presented.

Common error

Avoid using "likely to disappoint" when the outcome is almost certain. Stronger phrases like "guaranteed to disappoint" or "certain to disappoint" are more appropriate when the result is virtually assured.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely to disappoint" functions as a verb phrase. It combines an adjective ("likely") modifying an infinitive verb phrase ("to disappoint"). According to Ludwig AI, the structure is grammatically sound and widely recognized.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "likely to disappoint" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that communicates an expectation of a negative outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide acceptance. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in formal business and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to slightly formal register. Related phrases like "apt to disappoint" or "bound to disappoint" can offer subtle variations in meaning. While versatile, careful consideration should be given to the context to ensure the level of certainty aligns with the message being conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apt to disappoint

Replaces "likely" with "apt", suggesting a natural tendency towards causing disappointment.

liable to disappoint

Substitutes "likely" with "liable", indicating a probability or risk of causing disappointment.

bound to disappoint

Replaces "likely" with "bound", suggesting a stronger sense of inevitability in causing disappointment.

sure to disappoint

Uses "sure" instead of "likely", conveying a higher degree of confidence that disappointment will occur.

destined to disappoint

Implies that disappointment is predetermined or inevitable.

unlikely to satisfy

Shifts the focus from causing disappointment to failing to meet expectations or provide satisfaction.

expected to disappoint

Highlights the anticipation or expectation of disappointment.

set to disappoint

Suggests a plan or arrangement that will result in disappointment.

tending to disappoint

Indicates a pattern or inclination towards causing disappointment.

poised to disappoint

Conveys a sense of readiness or imminence in causing disappointment.

FAQs

How can I use "likely to disappoint" in a sentence?

You can use "likely to disappoint" to indicate an expectation of a negative outcome. For instance, "If the company doesn't innovate, its earnings are "likely to disappoint" investors."

What are some alternatives to "likely to disappoint"?

Alternatives include "apt to disappoint", "unlikely to satisfy", or "expected to disappoint", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "likely to disappoint" or "unlikely to impress"?

Both phrases convey a similar sentiment, but "likely to disappoint" focuses on unmet expectations, while "unlikely to impress" focuses on a lack of positive impact. The better choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "likely to disappoint" and "certain to disappoint"?

"Likely to disappoint" suggests a strong possibility of a negative outcome, while "certain to disappoint" implies a much higher degree of certainty. Use "certain to disappoint" when there is almost no chance of a positive result.