likely to support

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely to support" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the probability or expectation that something will provide assistance or endorsement to a particular cause, idea, or action. Example: "The new policy changes are likely to support the growth of small businesses in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Supporters of reform are generally more likely to support Tony Abbott than Malcolm Turnbull.

The Guardian

Those bodies appear likely to support him.

The New York Times

And Mr. Summers is likely to support big changes.

The New York Times

We then simply compared average support on a four-point scale (Much More Likely to Support, Somewhat More Likely to Support, Somewhat Less Likely to Support, and Much Less Likely to Support) among the various hypothetical candidates.

The Washington Post

Declining unemployment is also likely to support household finances.

The Guardian - Business

Older people are always more likely to support the Conservatives.

The Guardian - Opinion

White men, for instance, are disproportionately likely to support Republicans.

The New York Times

Stronger Republicans and more extreme conservatives are more likely to support Trump and less likely to support Clinton.

The Washington Post

But those who do are likely to support Mrs Clinton.

The Economist

It actually makes them more likely to support him".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"That actually made more voters less likely to support him than more".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "likely to support", ensure that the subject demonstrating the likelihood is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "The policy is likely to support growth", specify "The new economic policy is likely to support the growth of small businesses".

Common error

Avoid using "likely to support" when the outcome is highly uncertain. Using phrases like "potentially support" or "might support" can be more appropriate to convey uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely to support" functions as a predicate adjective describing the subject's propensity to provide assistance or approval. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable. The examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from political endorsements to scientific hypotheses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

27%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "likely to support" is a versatile phrase used to express the probability of endorsement or assistance. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and wide usage across diverse fields. While generally neutral in tone, its precise meaning can be fine-tuned by considering context and choosing semantically similar alternatives like "inclined to endorse" or "disposed to aid". When using "likely to support", be mindful of avoiding overstatements of certainty and ensuring clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inclined to endorse

Indicates a leaning towards formally backing or approving something.

disposed to aid

Suggests a natural tendency or willingness to help or assist.

prone to backing

Implies a habitual or characteristic way of providing support.

apt to champion

Highlights a tendency to advocate for or defend a cause or idea.

expected to favor

Conveys an anticipation or prediction that someone will choose or prefer something.

anticipated to promote

Focuses on the expectation that someone will actively encourage or advance something.

presumed to advocate

Indicates an assumption that someone will publicly support or recommend something.

predicted to assist

Emphasizes the forecasting aspect of someone providing help or support.

anticipated to defend

Implies a future expectation of someone upholding or protecting something.

set to uphold

Suggests a determined intention to maintain or defend something.

FAQs

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

You can use "likely to support" to indicate a high probability of someone or something offering assistance or endorsement. For example, "Democrats are "likely to support" the new bill".

What are some alternatives to "likely to support"?

Alternatives include "inclined to endorse", "disposed to aid", or "prone to backing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "likely to support" in formal writing?

While "likely to support" is generally acceptable, consider alternatives like "expected to favor" or "anticipated to promote" in highly formal contexts to maintain a professional tone.

What is the difference between "likely to support" and "willing to support"?

"Likely to support" indicates a high probability based on circumstances or predisposition, while "willing to support" emphasizes a voluntary readiness to provide assistance. One can be "likely to support" something due to external factors, but "willing to support" implies a conscious choice.