significantly less likely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significantly less likely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the probability of one event occurring in relation to another, indicating a notable difference in likelihood. Example: "Based on the data, individuals who exercise regularly are significantly less likely to develop chronic diseases compared to those who do not."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Children 2 to 5 were significantly less likely to be overweight compared with adolescents ages 12 to 19.

The New York Times - Health

Those treated with anti-cholesterol drugs were significantly less likely to show declines in cognitive abilities than those left untreated.

The New York Times

In Iceland, charges are significantly less likely to be issued if the victim was intoxicated when the rape took place.

The Guardian - Opinion

Frequent vacationers were also significantly less likely to leave the firm.

The New York Times

Girls play at lower rates and are significantly less likely to play violent games.

The New York Times

Those that received it were significantly less likely to consume alcohol.

The New York Times - Science

Young adults are significantly less likely to have health insurance than their older counterparts.

The New York Times

Even so, experts say, organizations can make fraud significantly less likely.

The New York Times

Alas, the fact that Sprint is involved makes it significantly less likely.

TechCrunch

Red changes were significantly less likely to be found among condom users (p = 0.007).

Contraception

Older women were significantly less likely to demand for abortion and post-abortion care.

Health Economics Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significantly less likely", ensure you provide a clear point of comparison. For example, instead of just saying "They are significantly less likely to succeed", specify "They are significantly less likely to succeed compared to those with prior experience."

Common error

Avoid using "significantly less likely" when the difference in probability is marginal or statistically insignificant. Ensure that the data supports a meaningful distinction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significantly less likely" functions as an adverbial modifier indicating a notable reduction in the probability of an event or outcome. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

58%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "significantly less likely" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a notable decrease in probability. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and widespread application across diverse contexts. It is frequently found in scientific and news media sources. When employing this phrase, ensure that the difference in probability is substantial and supported by data. Avoid overstating the significance if the difference is marginal. Consider related phrases such as "markedly less likely" or "substantially less likely" for alternative expressions. In summary, use "significantly less likely" when a clear and meaningful reduction in probability needs to be emphasized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

markedly less likely

Emphasizes a noticeable difference in probability.

substantially less likely

Highlights a considerable reduction in likelihood.

considerably less probable

Focuses on a notable decrease in the chance of something happening.

much less likely

A simpler, more informal way to express a lower probability.

far less likely

Similar to "much less likely" but potentially indicating a greater difference.

noticeably less likely

Highlights that the difference in probability is easily observed.

appreciably less likely

Indicates a measurable and important decrease in probability.

distinctly less likely

Suggests a clear and easily perceived difference in likelihood.

materially less likely

Emphasizes that the lower probability has a significant impact.

measurably less likely

Highlights that the difference in likelihood can be quantified.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "significantly less likely" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "markedly less likely", "substantially less likely", or "much less likely" depending on the context and desired emphasis.

What does "significantly less likely" mean in statistical terms?

In statistics, "significantly less likely" suggests that the observed difference between two probabilities is unlikely to have occurred by random chance, indicating a real effect or relationship between variables.

Is it always appropriate to use "significantly less likely" in formal writing?

While "significantly less likely" is generally acceptable in formal writing, ensure that its use is justified by data and that the level of formality aligns with the overall tone of the document. Consider using alternatives if a more nuanced expression is required.

What's the difference between "less likely" and "significantly less likely"?

"Less likely" indicates a simple decrease in probability, whereas "significantly less likely" implies a statistically meaningful reduction in probability. The latter suggests a stronger and more reliable difference.