they most likely

USAGE SUMMARY

'they most likely' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a probability that something is true. For example: "Given the evidence presented, they most likely committed the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

–What are they most likely to like or dislike about their own book?

The New York Times

It's okay for his friends to know that you like him, they most likely won't tell!

WikiHow

Popular kids are just like regular kids: they most likely enjoy people talking to them.

WikiHow

" Watch for words like "always" and "never", they most likely indicate a false answer.

WikiHow

They most likely have issues of their own to deal with, just like you.

WikiHow

Answer: They most likely do not.

The New York Times

Come Thanksgiving, they most likely will still be here.

The New York Times

They most likely had grown up in a violent or broken home.

Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association

Rather, they most likely induce or stabilize an active conformation of JAK2.

Stanford University

The Trail Blazers's roster suggests that they most likely won't be making the same leap.

The Guardian - Sport

People may have food but they most likely do not have power.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they most likely" when you want to indicate a high probability based on available evidence or common sense. Avoid using it for definitive statements of fact.

Common error

Avoid using "they most likely" when the evidence strongly suggests certainty. Opt for more definitive language such as "they will" or "they definitely will" when the situation warrants it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they most likely" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating a high probability or likelihood of an action or state. As Ludwig AI explains, it expresses a strong assumption without complete certainty. It can be used in a predictive or speculative manner.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they most likely" is a common and versatile construction used to express a strong probability or expectation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reports to general writing. It's important to remember that while it suggests a high degree of likelihood, it doesn't imply absolute certainty. When writing, consider the strength of the evidence and choose more definitive language if certainty is warranted. The frequent occurrence in News & Media and Wiki sources highlights its broad appeal and accessibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they probably will

Replaces "most likely" with a more direct synonym, reducing the emphasis.

chances are they will

Emphasizes the possibility or chance of something happening.

it is probable they will

Formalizes the expression, shifting the emphasis to the probability itself.

they are expected to

Shifts focus to expectation rather than probability.

they are apt to

Uses a slightly less common and more formal synonym for "likely".

it is anticipated they will

A formal alternative focusing on anticipation.

it stands to reason they will

Emphasizes logical deduction leading to the expectation.

it is reasonable to assume they will

A more explicit and formal way of expressing an assumption based on reason.

they figure to

An informal and somewhat colloquial alternative.

they are inclined to

Suggests a tendency or predisposition.

FAQs

What does "they most likely" mean?

The phrase "they most likely" suggests a high probability or strong likelihood that something is true or will happen. It's used to express an assumption based on available information but without absolute certainty.

How can I use "they most likely" in a sentence?

You can use "they most likely" to make predictions or assumptions about people or things. For example, "Given the weather forecast, "they most likely" will cancel the outdoor event".

What are some alternatives to "they most likely"?

Alternatives include phrases like "they probably will", "it is probable they will", or "chances are they will". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "they most likely" formal or informal?

The phrase "they most likely" falls in a neutral register, suitable for both informal and semi-formal contexts. For more formal writing, consider "it is probable they will".