likely to watch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely to watch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a probability or expectation that someone will watch something, such as a show or event. Example: "Based on their interests, they are likely to watch the new documentary series."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And urban dwellers, especially in well-off areas like Shanghai, are less likely to watch TV than rural folks, he says, a view backed up by media research.

Forbes

You're more likely to watch recent LaBute plays like "Wrecks" anticipating the final "gotcha!" twist than considering character.

The New York Times

Would it make you more or less likely to watch?

The Guardian

Young people are not only less likely to watch late-night shows, they are less likely to watch regular TV in general.

The Guardian - Music

Why, exactly, we're likely to watch has been a matter of wide speculation.

The New Yorker

Hard-liners are likely to watch closely for who reached out first.

The New York Times

Children are more likely to watch programmes, clips and films on the internet than on TV.

Independent

And that makes you wonder who is actually likely to watch this stuff.

The New York Times - Arts

He is more likely to watch television in the players' lounge or practice on his guitar.

The New York Times - Sports

Even those who are still working are likely to watch their wallets in such uncertain times.

The New York Times

If you're aged 18 to 34, you're more likely to watch the show than network news.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider if "likely" accurately reflects the probability. If the event is almost certain, consider stronger words like "will" or "definitely". If it's a remote possibility, use "might" or "could".

Common error

Avoid using "likely to watch" when the situation suggests a definite action. Using "will watch" provides more clarity when the action is guaranteed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely to watch" functions as an adjective phrase modifying an implied subject, followed by an infinitive verb. It expresses a prediction or expectation about a future action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

25%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "likely to watch" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction for expressing the probability or expectation of someone viewing something. As per Ludwig AI, it's deemed correct and shows very common usage across diverse platforms such as news outlets, scientific publications, and general media. Predominantly, it's used in neutral contexts, indicating its versatile applicability. When writing, ensure the use of "likely" accurately represents the intended degree of probability. Considering alternatives such as "inclined to view" or "probable to view" can add nuance, while avoiding overstatement ensures clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Probable to view

Substitutes "likely" with "probable", highlighting the higher chance of someone watching something.

Apt to view

Swaps "likely" with "apt", indicating a natural or inherent tendency to view.

Inclined to view

Replaces "likely" with "inclined", emphasizing a predisposition or tendency.

Tending to view

Uses "tending" to show a habitual or common inclination to watch.

Expected to see

Replaces "watch" with "see", focusing on the expectation of viewing.

Predicted to watch

Emphasizes a forecast or prediction that someone will watch something.

Disposed to watch

Replaces "likely" with "disposed", indicating a state of mind making one willing to watch.

Anticipated to view

Changes "likely" to "anticipated", suggesting a prior expectation or prediction.

Presumed to watch

Changes "likely" to "presumed", suggesting an assumption based on available information.

Liable to view

Replaces "likely" with "liable", stressing a high probability or chance of viewing.

FAQs

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

You can use "likely to watch" to describe the probability of someone viewing something, like in the sentence "They are "likely to watch" the new episode tonight".

What's a formal alternative to "likely to watch"?

In formal contexts, you might use phrases like "probable to view" or "anticipated to see" to maintain a professional tone.

Is there a difference between "likely to watch" and "going to watch"?

"Likely to watch" indicates a probability, while "going to watch" suggests a plan or intention. "They are "likely to watch"" means there's a good chance they'll view it, but "They are going to watch" means they've already decided to.

Which is correct, "likely to watch" or "likely watching"?

"Likely to watch" is generally correct when referring to a future event. "Likely watching" might be used in specific constructions, but ""likely to watch"" is more versatile and widely accepted.