most likely cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "most likely cause" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about the cause of a problem or event that is considered the most probable. For example, "Experts believe that climate change is the most likely cause of this year's record-breaking hurricane season."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Still, it is the most likely cause of the discoloration.

The New York Times

Infection was certainly the most likely cause of his fever, but his lungs were working better.

The New York Times - Magazine

If I was pushed into picking out a single most likely cause that would be it".

The Guardian - Sport

Bailes said he countered that football remained "by far" the most likely cause.

The New York Times - Sports

He said the most likely cause was "the malfunctioning of an electric household appliance".

The New York Times

An inquest jury concluded that the Taser was the most likely cause of Pimlott catching fire.

The Guardian

Investigators continue to believe that a gas leak is the most likely cause of the explosion.

The New York Times

It would most likely cause insurers to redesign plans to fall beneath the threshold.

The New York Times

But an inflammation of the stomach was the most likely cause, she said.

The New York Times - Sports

Russian officials have said a collision with a Western submarine was the most likely cause.

The New York Times

Perhaps the most likely cause of human extinction is faulty reasoning.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "most likely cause", ensure that the evidence supports the likelihood, even if it is not a certainty. Consider using qualifying language if the evidence is not conclusive.

Common error

Avoid presenting the "most likely cause" as a definitive fact when there are other potential causes. Acknowledge alternative possibilities to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most likely cause" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the reason or factor with the highest probability of resulting in a specific event or condition. Ludwig AI affirms its correct and widespread usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "most likely cause" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the most probable reason behind an event or condition. According to Ludwig AI, it’s suitable for various contexts, ranging from scientific discussions to news reports. Its prevalence is evident across numerous authoritative sources, including The New York Times and scientific journals. When employing this phrase, it’s vital to ensure that the assertion aligns with available evidence and to acknowledge the possibility of alternative factors. While highly versatile, overstating certainty should be avoided to maintain credibility. Alternatives such as "most probable reason" and "leading cause" can be used to add nuance or specificity. In summary, "most likely cause" is a robust and effective tool for reasoned explanation, provided it is used with precision and contextual awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most probable reason

Replaces "cause" with "reason", emphasizing the rationale behind an event.

leading cause

Focuses on the cause that is dominant or foremost.

primary reason

Highlights the main reason among several possibilities.

main contributing factor

Emphasizes the factor that significantly contributed to an outcome.

predominant factor

Highlights the factor that is most prominent or influential.

chief factor

Focuses on the principal or most important factor.

major reason

Highlights a reason that is significant and impactful.

plausible explanation

Shifts the focus to a possible explanation that is reasonable.

credible cause

Suggests a cause that is believable and trustworthy.

reason to believe

Indicates a basis or justification for considering something as the cause.

FAQs

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

Use "most likely cause" to indicate the most probable reason for an event or condition. For example, "The "most likely cause" of the engine failure was a lack of oil."

What are some alternatives to saying "most likely cause"?

You can use alternatives like "most probable reason", "leading cause", or "primary reason" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "most likely cause" in formal writing?

Yes, "most likely cause" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when presenting a reasoned explanation based on available evidence. However, ensure you provide sufficient justification for your claim.

How does "most likely cause" differ from "possible cause"?

"Most likely cause" implies a higher degree of probability based on available evidence, while "possible cause" simply indicates something that could have contributed, without necessarily being the primary factor. Using "most likely cause" suggests a stronger connection.