looks probable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looks probable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a likelihood or expectation that something may happen or be true. Example: "Based on the current evidence, it looks probable that the project will be completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

A continuing, polarising stalemate over Palestinian statehood looks probable.

The Guardian - Opinion

But something that once seemed remote now looks probable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Stimulus in the autumn statement still looks probable despite the upbeat growth news.

The Guardian - Business

It looks probable that inflation will move above earnings growth during 2017.

The Guardian - Business

A second round of voting now looks probable; it could help calm the country, or it could make things worse.

The New Yorker

(Given that thirty thousand volunteers have already signed up to help on the campaign, this looks probable).

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

What looked probable just moments ago now appears a destiny fulfilled.

The Guardian - Sport

Further write-downs, beyond the estimated 20% haircut already taken, look probable.

The Economist

It is looking probable that the TV series will expand beyond Martin's material.

Independent

It looked probable that she would lose one eye and possible that the cancer could invade her brain.

The Guardian

Sadly they narrowly missed out on a spot in the final but with a wildcard looking probable, we're hoping the judges pick this lot for another chance.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looks probable" when you want to convey that something is likely based on current observations or evidence. It implies a visual assessment of likelihood.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "looks probable" might sound less formal in certain professional or academic settings. Opt for alternatives like "is likely" or "appears probable" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looks probable" functions as a predicative expression, where "looks" acts as a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "probable". This indicates a judgment about the likelihood of something based on available evidence, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looks probable" is a versatile phrase used to express a degree of certainty or likelihood based on current evidence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and commonly found in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While suitable for general use, remember to consider your audience and the context, as more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain professional or academic settings. By considering alternative phrases, such as "seems likely" or "appears probable", you can fine-tune your writing to achieve the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seems likely

Changes the verb from "looks" to "seems", offering a slightly less visual connotation.

appears likely

Replaces "looks" with "appears", suggesting a judgment based on available evidence.

is likely

Simplifies the structure by removing the visual aspect and directly stating the likelihood.

is probable

Substitutes the adjective "probable" for the adverb "likely", creating a more formal tone.

is expected

Shifts the focus to expectation rather than visual assessment of probability.

is anticipated

Similar to "is expected" but carries a slightly stronger sense of anticipation.

is foreseeable

Highlights the ability to see or predict the outcome in advance.

is predictable

Emphasizes the predictability of the event or outcome.

is anticipated to happen

Adds "to happen" to explicitly state that it is an event or occurrence that is likely.

could happen

Expresses a possibility, though with less certainty than "looks probable".

FAQs

How can I use "looks probable" in a sentence?

You can use "looks probable" to express that something is likely based on the current situation. For example, "It "looks probable" that the President will take his place among the war's victims".

What are some alternatives to "looks probable"?

Alternatives include "seems likely", "appears likely", or "is likely". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "looks probable" formal or informal?

The phrase "looks probable" is generally considered neutral in formality. While suitable for news articles and general writing, more formal options such as "is probable" might be preferable in academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "looks probable" and "seems probable"?

The difference is subtle. "Looks probable" implies a visual assessment, whereas "seems probable" suggests a judgment based on a broader range of sensory or cognitive inputs. In many cases, they are interchangeable.