vastly less likely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vastly less likely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the probability of two events, indicating that one event has a significantly lower chance of occurring than the other. Example: "Given the current data, it is vastly less likely that the project will meet its deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

As for police killings, each one is tragic, and each unjustified one is outrageous; police departments in Europe, for instance, are vastly less likely to kill.

The New Yorker

The Marine Stewardship Council says its own analysis shows that the fish stocks it certifies have proved vastly less likely to be overexploited than uncertified stocks.

The New York Times

"It's still a very rare stone," said Mr. Bridges, who explained that to find a Tsavorite exceeding two carats is vastly less likely than coming upon a comparable emerald.

The New York Times

Once they reach college age, those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds are far less likely to go to college — and vastly less likely to go to a top-tier school — than those luckier in their parentage.

The New York Times

The end result here is that whereas in the past a U.S. citizen abroad might be able to get away with not filing their U.S. taxes, that has become vastly less likely under these new circumstances.

The Washington Post

Compared to their better-paid counterparts, American workers in low-wage jobs are vastly less likely to get paid holidays through work.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Others believe that harm reduction is the key goal, and since we know e-cigarettes don't pose the harms associated with tobacco use (because they don't contain tobacco itself), they're likely to be vastly less harmful than cigarettes even if there might be some negative impacts of use.

The Guardian

The rest of their population like it vastly less.

The New York Times

While there is some experimental evidence from the University of Tennessee that monitored participants are less likely to discuss incriminating topics, the United States has vastly expanded its spying apparatus and there's no shortage of government critics.

TechCrunch

-An experiment finds that women are less likely to speak up in groups where they're vastly outnumbered.

Huffington Post

In addition, European banks have vastly more money at the United States Federal Reserve than in 2008, making it less likely that banks will run out of dollars.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "vastly less likely" to emphasize a substantial difference in probability between two events or outcomes. This phrase adds weight and impact to your statement, making it clear that one option is significantly more improbable than the other.

Common error

Avoid using "vastly less likely" when the difference in probability is not actually significant or supported by evidence. Overusing the phrase can weaken its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vastly less likely" functions as an adverbial modifier intensifying the adjective phrase "less likely". Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and usability. It serves to emphasize a significant difference in probability between two events or outcomes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vastly less likely" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a significantly reduced probability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not as common as simpler alternatives, its impact lies in emphasizing a substantial difference in likelihood, making it suitable for contexts where such emphasis is desired. The phrase is commonly found in news and media, and can be used in both formal and informal situations. When using this phrase, ensure that the difference in probability is indeed significant to avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

much less likely

A more direct and simple alternative, focusing on the notable difference in likelihood.

far less likely

Similar to "much less likely", but can suggest a greater degree of difference.

significantly less probable

Emphasizes a measurable or statistically significant reduction in probability.

considerably less likely

Highlights the substantial reduction in likelihood.

substantially less likely

Similar to "considerably less likely", emphasizing a large difference.

markedly less likely

Indicates a noticeable or distinct reduction in probability.

appreciably less likely

Suggests a reduction in likelihood that is easily perceived or measured.

noticeably less likely

Focuses on the ease with which the reduced likelihood can be observed.

dramatically less likely

Emphasizes a large and sudden reduction in likelihood.

materially less likely

Focuses on a tangible or significant reduction in likelihood.

FAQs

What does "vastly less likely" mean?

The phrase "vastly less likely" indicates that something has a significantly lower chance of happening compared to something else. It emphasizes a large difference in probability.

What are some alternatives to "vastly less likely"?

You can use alternatives like "significantly less probable", "much less likely", or "far less likely" depending on the context.

Is "vastly less likely" formal or informal?

"Vastly less likely" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, though it's more commonly found in news articles and analytical contexts. Consider using a more direct alternative in very informal settings.

How can I use "vastly less likely" in a sentence?

Example: "Given the precautions taken, a data breach is now "vastly less likely" than it was last year."