reduce the likelihood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reduce the likelihood" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express that something may be made less likely to occur. For example, "Taking preventative measures can reduce the likelihood of an accident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These accounts reduce the likelihood of punishment and facilitate forgiveness.

The Washington Post

Nor do checkpoint procedures significantly reduce the likelihood of embarrassment.

Cornell University

Consistent soil temperature will reduce the likelihood of frost heaving.

Cornell University

Will direct elections really reduce the likelihood of disputed elections?

The Economist

Preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of concussions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such an assurance would reduce the likelihood that militants could provoke a war neither side wants.

The New York Times

Our highest priority should be to reduce the likelihood of such an event.

The New York Times

What can be learned to reduce the likelihood of future failure in similar situations?

The Guardian

2011 Study of 1,700 couples shows that HIV drugs can reduce the likelihood of infection.

The Guardian

This can contribute to easing global tensions and reduce the likelihood of further nuclear weapons proliferation.

The Guardian - Opinion

And they argue that the commercial pressure will increase, not reduce, the likelihood of future crashes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reduce the likelihood", clearly specify what actions or measures are being taken to achieve the reduction. This provides context and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid implying absolute elimination of risk when using "reduce the likelihood". It indicates a decrease in probability, not a guarantee of prevention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reduce the likelihood" functions as a verb phrase expressing the action of diminishing the probability of a specific event or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its application in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

31%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reduce the likelihood" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe actions taken to diminish the probability of an event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific domains. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the actions taken and avoid overstating certainty, as it implies a decrease in probability rather than complete prevention. Alternatives such as "decrease the probability" or "minimize the risk" can be used for stylistic variation. Considering it's high frequency and broad applicability, "reduce the likelihood" is a valuable tool in conveying preventative measures and strategic planning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decrease the probability

Uses "probability" instead of "likelihood", which is a direct synonym.

lessen the chance

Substitutes "likelihood" with "chance", providing a simpler alternative.

lower the odds

Replaces "likelihood" with "odds", offering a more informal tone.

minimize the risk

Shifts focus to "risk" as the element being reduced, applicable when referring to potentially negative outcomes.

weaken the possibility

Replaces "reduce" with "weaken", emphasizing a reduction in strength or impact.

curtail the possibility

Employs "curtail" and "possibility" for a more formal and controlled tone.

mitigate the potential

Focuses on reducing the "potential" for something to occur, often used in risk management.

diminish the prospect

Uses "diminish" and "prospect" for a more sophisticated and formal effect.

impede the development

Shifts the focus to hindering the "development" of an event, often used in preventive contexts.

avert the danger

Focuses on preventing "danger", implying an avoidance of a threatening situation.

FAQs

How can I use "reduce the likelihood" in a sentence?

You can use "reduce the likelihood" to explain that a specific action can make an event less probable. For example, "Implementing safety protocols can "reduce the likelihood" of accidents in the workplace".

What are some alternatives to "reduce the likelihood"?

Alternatives include "decrease the probability", "lower the odds", or "minimize the risk". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it better to say "reduce the likelihood" or "eliminate the likelihood"?

"Reduce the likelihood" suggests making something less probable, while "eliminate the likelihood" implies completely preventing it. Use "reduce the likelihood" when actions can decrease the chances but not guarantee prevention.

What's the difference between "reduce the likelihood" and "reduce the risk"?

"Reduce the likelihood" is generally used for events or outcomes. "Reduce the risk" specifically applies to potential dangers or negative consequences. The terms can sometimes be interchangeable, but "reduce the risk" has a stronger emphasis on potential harm.