very unlikely that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very unlikely that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a low probability of a certain event or situation occurring. Example: "Given the current circumstances, it is very unlikely that we will meet our deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's very unlikely that he would refuse.

The Guardian - Money

It is also very unlikely that you will faint.

Independent

Statistically, it's very unlikely that all those favorites will win.

The New York Times - Sports

It's very unlikely that this will be helpful.

The Guardian - Opinion

In other words, once you're into the system, it's very unlikely that you'll exit.

Cornell University

Moreover, it is very unlikely that a student will forget one of these exercises.

University of California, Berkeley

Actually, it is very unlikely that roosting birds will fall from their perch.

Cornell University

It is very unlikely that that sentence would have appeared in The Times without further explanation.

The New York Times

(It's very unlikely that Susan Sontag would have been interested in him).

The New Yorker

Now, it's still very unlikely that Ron Paul will become president.

The New York Times

"It's unlikely, very unlikely," that Etan's remains would be recovered, Mr. Kelly said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very unlikely that" to express a skeptical viewpoint or to counter an assumption. It's more impactful when followed by a reason or explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "very unlikely that" when you mean completely impossible. It still leaves room for a slight chance. If there is absolutely no chance of something happening, use "impossible" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very unlikely that" functions as a qualifying statement, typically introducing a clause that expresses a low degree of probability or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Examples show its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "very unlikely that" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to convey a low probability or a skeptical outlook. As verified by Ludwig AI, it's commonly employed across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. When writing, use it to temper assumptions, introduce contrasting viewpoints, and express doubt, but be mindful of overstating certainty. Consider alternatives like "highly improbable that" for stronger emphasis or "slim chance that" for a more nuanced tone. Always provide context or explanation following the phrase to enhance its impact and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly improbable that

Emphasizes the improbability more strongly.

extremely doubtful that

Highlights the doubt associated with the possibility.

next to impossible that

Communicates near impossibility.

barely possible that

Suggests the possibility exists but is extremely limited.

practically no possibility that

Highlights a minimal degree of likelihood.

remote chance that

Indicates a very small possibility.

hardly any prospect that

Focuses on the lack of positive outlook.

slim chance that

Synonymous with remote chance, highlighting the minimal possibility.

not a prayer that

An informal way to express a complete lack of possibility.

scant hope that

Emphasizes the lack of optimism or anticipation.

FAQs

How can I use "very unlikely that" in a sentence?

You can use "very unlikely that" to express a low probability of a certain event or situation occurring. For example: "It's "very unlikely that" the project will be completed on time given the current delays".

What are some alternatives to "very unlikely that"?

Alternatives include "highly improbable that", "extremely doubtful that", or "scant hope that", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "unlikely" or "very unlikely"?

Using "very unlikely" intensifies the expression of improbability. "Unlikely" suggests a lower probability, but "very unlikely" emphasizes the lack of expectation more strongly.

When should I not use "very unlikely that"?

Avoid using ""very unlikely that"" in formal or scientific writing if a more precise statistical probability can be provided. In casual conversation, it's perfectly acceptable.