most likely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "most likely" is correct and usuable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is likely or probably true based on the available information. For example, "Most likely, the store will be closed on Christmas Day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most likely.

The New York Times

Mid-seventies, most likely.

The New Yorker

(You can't, most likely).

The New York Times

The most likely outcome?

The Economist

"Most likely a hawk.

The New York Times - Magazine

Most likely neither.

The New York Times

For Torrie, most likely..

The New York Times - Books

Four, most likely.

The New Yorker

Most likely dead.

The New Yorker

Most likely in Texas.

Independent

Most likely the latter.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "most likely" to convey a strong probability based on available evidence, but avoid overusing it in contexts that require definitive statements.

Common error

Avoid using "most likely" when you have definitive proof or when certainty is required. Instead, use phrases that indicate certainty, such as "certainly", "definitely", or "without a doubt".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most likely" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause to express a high degree of probability or expectation. As Ludwig AI points out, it suggests that something is very probable but not certain.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

28%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "most likely" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to express a high degree of probability or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts. The analysis reveals its frequency in News & Media and Wiki sources, highlighting its applicability in both formal and informal settings. While generally neutral in register, understanding its nuances and alternatives can enhance clarity and precision in writing. Remember to reserve "most likely" for situations where a high degree of probability exists but certainty cannot be guaranteed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

very probably

Emphasizes a high degree of probability, similar to "most likely" but more direct.

in all probability

A more formal way of saying "most likely", often used in academic or professional contexts.

it is probable that

Similar in meaning but expressed as a full clause, adding a slight emphasis on the possibility.

chances are

An informal expression indicating a good possibility of something happening.

presumably

Suggests something is likely based on assumptions or prior knowledge.

it is to be expected that

Implies an anticipation of something based on usual circumstances.

one can expect

Highlights the expectation of an event, similar to "most likely" but more personalized.

it stands to reason that

Indicates a logical conclusion, similar to "most likely" in suggesting what is reasonable to anticipate.

as likely as not

Suggests the event has a 50% chance of occuring, contrasting the high likelihood of "most likely".

liable to

Focuses on the propensity or tendency of something happening, similar in predictive nature.

FAQs

How can I use "most likely" in a sentence?

You can use "most likely" to express a high degree of probability. For example, "Most likely it will rain tomorrow" or "The most likely outcome is a compromise".

What are some alternatives to "most likely"?

Alternatives include "very probably", "in all probability", or "chances are". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to say "mostly likely" instead of "most likely"?

No, "mostly likely" is not grammatically correct. The correct phrase is "most likely", where "most" modifies "likely" to indicate the highest degree of probability.

What's the difference between "likely" and "most likely"?

"Likely" indicates a general probability, while "most likely" suggests the highest probability among several possibilities. "It is likely to happen" means it has a good chance, but "it is most likely to happen" suggests it's the most probable outcome.