reducing the chances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reducing the chances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ways to lower the likelihood of a particular outcome or event occurring. Example: "Implementing safety measures is essential for reducing the chances of accidents in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This method immortalizes a donor's normal cells in about a week, reducing the chances of senescence.

Methods

Yet in Turkey the slow pace of talks is reducing the chances of success.

The Economist

Progress toward Middle East peace remains key to reducing the chances of another major war in that region.

Yale University

The gripper allows objects to be lifted with minimal contact thereby reducing the chances of damaging or contaminating the object.

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Moody's said an economic recovery had allowed Brazil to shrink its budget deficit, reducing the chances of a debt default.

The New York Times

members that borrow internationally have big oil reserves, reducing the chances they will run out of cash.

The New York Times

Modern ECT is sometimes delivered to only one side of the brain, reducing the chances of memory deficits.

The New York Times - Health

The Treasury Department has argued that write-downs would save money by reducing the chances homeowners would default.

The New York Times

He also developed drugs to suppress the immune system, further reducing the chances for graft rejection by the recipient.

Britannica

Doctors have more complete information in treating patients, reducing the chances of medical errors and unneeded tests.

The New York Times

The design approach does not require foreshortening, and will significantly reduce the balloon handling during manufacture reducing the chances of inducing damage to the envelope.

Advances in Space Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to mitigate risks or avoid undesirable outcomes, use "reducing the chances" followed by a clear explanation of the measures taken and the specific outcome you are trying to prevent.

Common error

Avoid implying absolute elimination of risk when using "reducing the chances". Instead, acknowledge that while the likelihood is decreased, the possibility may still exist. For instance, instead of saying "This eliminates all risks", state "This significantly reduces the chances of risks occurring".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reducing the chances" functions as a gerund phrase that typically serves as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It describes an action or process aimed at lowering the probability of a specific outcome. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reducing the chances" is a versatile gerund phrase used to express the act of lowering the probability of an event. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, from formal scientific writing to news reports. Analysis of usage patterns shows it is very common, particularly in news and science. When using this phrase, ensure you're not overstating the certainty of risk reduction and clearly explaining the measures being taken. Alternatives like "lowering the chances" and "decreasing the chances" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lowering the chances

Uses a different verb with a similar meaning, focusing on making the chances smaller.

decreasing the chances

Employs 'decreasing' instead of 'reducing', emphasizing the diminishing aspect of the chances.

mitigating the chances

Focuses on lessening the severity or impact of potential negative outcomes.

minimizing the likelihood

Shifts from 'chances' to 'likelihood', implying a focus on reducing probability.

lessening the probability

Replaces 'chances' with 'probability', providing a slightly more formal tone.

averting the possibility

Suggests preventing something from happening altogether, rather than just reducing its likelihood.

diminishing the risk

Changes the focus to 'risk', highlighting the potential negative consequences.

curtailing the odds

Uses a different verb ('curtailing') and noun ('odds') to express a similar meaning.

forestalling the incident

Focuses on preventing a specific incident from occurring.

impeding the opportunity

Addresses hindering an opportunity, implying prevention of a potentially advantageous event.

FAQs

How can I use "reducing the chances" in a sentence?

You can use "reducing the chances" to describe actions taken to lower the probability of a specific outcome. For example: "Implementing safety protocols is aimed at "reducing the chances" of workplace accidents".

What are some alternatives to "reducing the chances"?

Some alternatives include "lowering the chances", "decreasing the chances", or "minimizing the likelihood". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is it better to say "reducing the chances of" or "reducing the risk of"?

Both phrases are valid, but they emphasize different aspects. "Reducing the chances of" focuses on the probability of an event, while "reducing the risk of" highlights the potential negative consequences. Choose the phrase that best aligns with the intended meaning.

Can "reducing the chances" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "reducing the chances" is appropriate for both formal and informal settings. While more formal alternatives like "mitigating the likelihood" exist, "reducing the chances" is widely understood and accepted in various contexts.