quite likely that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite likely that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong possibility or probability regarding a situation or outcome. Example: "Given the current trends, it is quite likely that we will see an increase in sales next quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's quite likely that will include a new version of iTunes itself.

TechCrunch

It's quite likely that this is something like a third of this snake's annual energy budget.

Cornell University

It is quite likely that the directive is dead.

The Economist

It is quite likely that it will be reimposed.

The Guardian

In fact, it's quite likely that they will.

The New Yorker

It is quite likely that the extinct Testudines likewise had a similar range of dietary preferences.

University of California, Berkeley

In fact, it's quite likely that these changes have synergistic effects on one another.

University of California, Berkeley

It was quite likely that Clinton would lose the next 11 contests, colleagues recall him saying.

The Washington Post

But it is quite likely that rapid decline will continue regardless of legislation or the church.

The New York Times

He said that it was "quite likely" that his client would "ultimately be exonerated".

The Economist

If you drink at all, it's quite likely that you have a similar collection.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "quite likely that", ensure the context clearly supports the probability you are expressing. The phrase is best used when there's a reasonable basis for your expectation.

Common error

Avoid using "quite likely that" when the outcome is highly uncertain or speculative. This phrase implies a significant degree of confidence in the expected outcome, so ensure your assessment aligns with the available evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite likely that" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a clause, expressing a strong degree of probability or expectation regarding a particular outcome or situation. Ludwig AI confirms the common use of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

25%

Science

22%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite likely that" is a versatile phrase used to express a strong possibility or expectation. It's grammatically correct and commonly found in various contexts, particularly in news, academic writing, and scientific publications. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent use.

While suitable for both formal and informal settings, it's important to ensure that the context warrants the degree of certainty the phrase implies. Overstating certainty when the outcome is truly speculative should be avoided. Alternatives like "very likely that", "highly probable that", or "it is expected that" can be used depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

By considering its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively employ "quite likely that" to communicate informed predictions and expectations in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly probable that

Replaces "likely" with "probable" and intensifies the probability with "highly", making it a stronger assertion.

very likely that

Substitutes "quite" with "very", offering a slightly less formal and more common expression of high probability.

it is probable that

Uses "probable" instead of "likely" and restructures the sentence, resulting in a slightly more formal tone.

it is anticipated that

Shifts the focus to anticipation or expectation, implying a reasoned prediction rather than just probability.

it is reasonable to assume that

Introduces an element of assumption based on reason, making the statement slightly more cautious.

it is expected that

Emphasizes expectation, suggesting that the event is in line with current trends or predictions.

chances are high that

Offers a more informal way of expressing high probability, suitable for less formal contexts.

it is foreseeable that

Highlights the predictability of an event, suggesting it can be seen in advance.

in all probability

Implies that the event is almost certain to occur, though still leaving room for doubt.

odds are that

Uses a more informal expression to indicate a likely outcome based on current circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "quite likely that" in a sentence?

You can use "quite likely that" to express a strong possibility or expectation. For example, "Given the positive feedback, it's quite likely that the product will be a success."

What are some alternatives to "quite likely that"?

You can use alternatives like "very likely that", "highly probable that", or "it is expected that" depending on the context.

Is "quite likely that" a formal or informal expression?

"Quite likely that" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, for very formal writing, you might consider alternatives like "highly probable that".

What's the difference between "quite likely that" and "likely"?

"Quite likely that" emphasizes a stronger degree of probability compared to simply saying "likely". The addition of "quite" intensifies the level of expectation.