most likely is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "most likely is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong probability or likelihood regarding a situation or statement. Example: "Based on the evidence presented, the outcome most likely is a positive one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

than he most likely is just annoyed by or doesn't like you.

WikiHow

The answer, most likely, is Europe.

The Economist

Your initial reaction most likely is to tighten up.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

What it will become, most likely, is a thoroughfare.

The New York Times

"Girl Most Likely" is rated PG-13 (Parents strongly cautioned).

The New York Times

And sadly, to the vast majority of viewers, it most likely is.

The Guardian - Film

The same most likely is true for an expression of pride.

The New York Times - Health

Most likely is that the two fighters are using each other to promote something else.

The Guardian - Sport

What won't be standard, most likely, is the revenue that comes from those ads.

The New York Times

What seems safe most likely is nothing more than a large bet.

The Guardian - Opinion

What Mr. Allen had going for him, most likely, is that he was from the South.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To increase the nuance and precision of your writing, consider using "most likely is" in conjunction with supporting evidence or explanations. This strengthens your assertion and provides readers with a clearer understanding of why you believe something is probable.

Common error

While "most likely is" is grammatically correct, overuse in formal writing can make your tone sound less authoritative. In such cases, consider alternatives like "it is highly probable that" or "evidence suggests that" to maintain a professional and confident voice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most likely is" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause to express a strong probability or likelihood. It essentially qualifies the statement by indicating a high degree of certainty without absolute assurance. Ludwig confirms the validity and common usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

26%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "most likely is" serves to convey a high probability or expectation, based on some evidence or reasoning. As confirmed by Ludwig, its grammatical structure is sound and valid. It is frequently found in diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and general informational writing. To achieve a more authoritative tone in formal writing, consider alternatives like "it is highly probable that." While widely usable, being mindful of overuse contributes to improving writing and communication across contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probably is

Changes the emphasis to a slightly less assertive probability.

almost certainly is

Indicates a very high degree of confidence in the likelihood.

very likely is

Emphasizes the degree of likelihood with an intensifier.

it is highly probable

Shifts to a more formal tone while maintaining a high level of probability.

in all likelihood is

Adds a touch of formality and emphasizes overall probability.

chances are it is

Presents the likelihood in a more casual and conversational manner.

it's a good bet it is

Introduces a betting metaphor to express a strong likelihood.

one can assume it is

Suggests that the likelihood is based on an assumption.

it is reasonable to expect

Frames the likelihood as a reasonable expectation based on circumstances.

it is anticipated that

Highlights anticipation or expectation, but retains a sense of likelihood.

FAQs

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

The phrase "most likely is" is used to indicate a high probability or expectation. For example, "Given the current weather patterns, rain "most likely is" expected tomorrow."

What are some alternatives to "most likely is"?

Alternatives to "most likely is" include "probably is", "almost certainly is", or "very likely is". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of certainty you wish to convey.

Is it more correct to say "most likely is" or "is most likely"?

"Most likely is" and "is most likely" are both grammatically correct, but "most likely is" tends to be more common and natural-sounding in contemporary English. However, sentence structure can influence which sounds better.

What's the difference between "most likely is" and "could be"?

"Most likely is" implies a higher degree of probability than "could be". While "most likely is" suggests a strong expectation, "could be" indicates a possibility without assigning a specific likelihood.