likely to influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely to influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential impact or effect that something may have on a person, situation, or outcome. Example: "The new policy changes are likely to influence employee productivity and morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Are the sanctions likely to influence Putin's behaviour?

The Guardian

"For stocks, inflation expectations are likely to influence outcomes in 2017.

The Guardian - Money

ATTITUDES toward Popper's standing are likely to influence responses to this biography.

The New York Times - Books

And yet these aides are acutely aware of what is likely to influence the Senator's decision.

The New Yorker

The opinion of the two cabinet officials is likely to influence the president's decision.

The New York Times

Bernanke's testimony and results from eBay are likely to influence how European markets open tomorrow.

The Guardian - Business

While there are still political overtones, they are only likely to influence people at the margins.

The New York Times

I plan merely to suggest how the 1998 decisions are likely to influence subsequent developments.

Columbia University

Assessments that involve ongoing interactions among scientists, stakeholders, and policymakers prove particularly likely to influence behaviors.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

How is this quandary likely to influence international affairs and politics?

University of California, Berkeley

These expenses are likely to influence the price point of your event.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "likely to influence", ensure the sentence clearly identifies both the influencing factor and the target being influenced. Clarity prevents ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "likely to influence" when the evidence for actual influence is weak. Overstating the potential impact can undermine your credibility. Instead, use more cautious language, such as "may affect" or "could potentially influence."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely to influence" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used as part of a verb phrase to express probability or potential impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly indicates that something has a good chance of affecting something else. Examples from Ludwig show its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

32%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "likely to influence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey a high probability of impact or effect. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is applicable in diverse contexts, ranging from formal academic papers and scientific reports to news articles and professional communications. While "likely to influence" is versatile, remember that clarity is crucial: ensure that both the influencing factor and the subject of influence are explicitly stated. When the evidence is weak, it's better to opt for alternatives such as "may affect" or "could potentially influence". By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "likely to influence" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prone to affect

This alternative emphasizes a natural tendency or susceptibility to cause an effect.

apt to sway

This alternative highlights the power to persuade or change someone's opinion.

liable to impact

This alternative underscores the probability of having a significant effect.

disposed to shape

This alternative focuses on the inclination to mold or direct something.

predisposed to mold

This alternative indicates a pre-existing inclination to influence the form or character of something.

subject to sway

This alternative emphasizes the state of being open or vulnerable to influence.

inclined to determine

This alternative highlights the leaning towards playing a decisive role.

have an impact on

A more general way of saying influencing, with a focus on measurable effects.

stand to affect

Suggests the potential for a future impact.

potentially shape

Focuses on the capacity to influence the eventual form or direction.

FAQs

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

Use "likely to influence" to indicate a probable effect. For example: "Economic factors are "likely to influence" consumer behavior."

What are some alternatives to "likely to influence"?

You can use alternatives such as "prone to affect", "apt to sway", or "liable to impact" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "likely to influence" or "likely to have an influence on"?

"Likely to influence" is generally more concise and direct. "Likely to have an influence on" is grammatically correct but can sound more verbose. The choice depends on the desired tone and style.

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

"Likely to influence" indicates a high probability but not a certainty. "Certain to influence" suggests a guaranteed effect. Use the phrase that accurately reflects the strength of the expected impact.