they are likely to be

USAGE SUMMARY

It is correct and is used in written English.
It is used to describe a possibility of something happening. Example sentence: The forecast predicts a storm, so they are likely to be delays in the area.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Deals like that could come back, but they are likely to be structured much more conservatively.

The New York Times

And they are likely to be pleased.

The New York Times

They are likely to be wrong.

The Guardian

Unfortunately, they are likely to be disappointed.

The Guardian - Opinion

This winter they are likely to be much higher.

The New York Times - Magazine

They are likely to be equally thought-provoking.

The Guardian

If so they are likely to be disappointed for now.

The Guardian - Sport

They are likely to be small and underweight.

The Guardian

They are likely to be lessons worth learning.

The New York Times

They are likely to be almost useless – or worse.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are likely to be important for two reasons.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they are likely to be" to express a reasonable expectation based on available evidence or common sense. Ensure the subject 'they' is clearly defined and understood in the context.

Common error

Avoid using "they are likely to be" when you need to express absolute certainty. This phrase conveys probability, not a guaranteed outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are likely to be" functions as a modal expression indicating a degree of probability or expectation. It suggests that based on current information or circumstances, something is reasonably expected to occur. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are likely to be" is a versatile expression used to indicate probability or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide acceptance. It is most commonly found in news and media sources, but also appears frequently in scientific and formal writing. While it is a useful tool for expressing probabilistic assessments, it is important to avoid overstating certainty. Related phrases include "they are prone to be" and "they are expected to be", which offer slightly different nuances. Remember to ensure clarity in your writing by clearly defining the subject 'they' within the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are prone to be

Focuses on a natural inclination or tendency towards something.

they are apt to be

Highlights a natural or inherent tendency, similar to 'prone', but with a slightly more formal tone.

they are inclined to be

Indicates a leaning or disposition towards a particular outcome.

they are expected to be

Shifts the focus to anticipation or prediction based on available information.

it is anticipated they will be

Rephrases the sentence to use a passive voice, emphasizing anticipation.

it is foreseeable they will be

Suggests that the outcome is predictable or can be reasonably anticipated.

chances are they will be

Uses an informal expression to convey probability.

it's probable they will be

Emphasizes the likelihood of something occurring.

they will potentially be

Indicates a possibility without strong conviction.

they might just be

Expresses a lower degree of certainty or a tentative possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "they are likely to be" in a sentence?

Use "they are likely to be" to express a probability or expectation. For example, "Given the current economic climate, they are likely to be layoffs soon."

What phrases are similar to "they are likely to be"?

Alternatives include "they are prone to be", "they are inclined to be", or "they are expected to be". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "they are likely to be" formal or informal?

"They are likely to be" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "it is anticipated that they will be" might be preferred in highly formal writing.

Can "they are likely to be" be used to express a negative outcome?

Yes, "they are likely to be" can be used to express a negative outcome. For example, "If the company continues to lose money, they are likely to be forced to declare bankruptcy."