not apt to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not apt to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is unlikely or not inclined to do something. Example: "She is not apt to forget important dates, as she keeps a detailed planner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We're not apt to disagree.

The New York Times

That is not apt to happen.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, he is not apt to become popular.

The New Yorker

The debate is fierce, and not apt to end soon.

The New York Times

Even if you win, the N.Y.P.D. is not apt to revamp its training.

The New York Times - Magazine

But a book that deploys a screwdriver is not apt to be very nuanced.

The New York Times - Books

Once there, these bored, resentful, hungry prisoners are not apt to be model citizens when released.

The Economist

But with sovereign debt, such bonds are not apt to have many of those covenants anyway.

The New York Times

It is not apt to transfer them as if they were commercial rights.

The Guardian

Book clubs, on or off the Web, are not apt to change that.

The New York Times - Books

And these essays are so true to form that they're not apt to change your preferences.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not apt to", ensure the context clearly indicates a low probability rather than an impossibility. For stronger emphasis, consider "unlikely to".

Common error

While grammatically correct, "not apt to" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "unlikely to" or "not going to" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not apt to" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a verb, indicating a low probability or lack of inclination towards a particular action or state. Ludwig shows its versatile use across diverse textual contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not apt to" functions as an adjective phrase, indicating a low probability or inclination. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears most frequently in news and media, encyclopedias and science, holding a neutral to formal register. While versatile, simpler alternatives like "unlikely to" may be preferred in informal contexts. Remember to use "not apt to" when you want to express a reasoned judgment about future possibilities, particularly in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unlikely to

A more direct and commonly used synonym for expressing low probability.

not inclined to

Focuses on a lack of willingness or disposition.

not disposed to

Similar to "not inclined to" but slightly more formal.

not prone to

Indicates a lack of susceptibility or tendency.

not liable to

Suggests a low risk or chance of something happening.

not given to

Implies a lack of habit or tendency.

not wont to

An archaic alternative meaning "not accustomed to".

not susceptible to

Highlights a lack of vulnerability or openness to something.

not in the habit of

Emphasizes the absence of a regular practice or routine.

it is improbable that

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing unlikelihood.

FAQs

What does "not apt to" mean?

The phrase "not apt to" means unlikely or not inclined to do something. It suggests a low probability of something occurring or someone behaving in a particular way.

How can I use "not apt to" in a sentence?

You can use "not apt to" to indicate that something is improbable. For example, "He is "not apt to" forget his anniversary."

What are some alternatives to "not apt to"?

Some alternatives to "not apt to" include "unlikely to", "not inclined to", or "not prone to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "not apt to" formal or informal?

"Not apt to" leans towards being more formal. In casual conversation, "unlikely to" or "not going to" might sound more natural.