we are likely to

USAGE SUMMARY

"we are likely to" is an acceptable and useful phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are making a prediction about something that is probable or plausible. For example, "We are likely to see more violent storms in the coming weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We are likely to answer with something like "Ohhhhhh MY God!

Huffington Post

"We are likely to be surprised".

The New York Times

We are likely to lose a seat across Merseyside.

The Guardian

With strangling student debt, we are likely to fall further.

The New York Times

What we heard is what we are likely to get.

The New York Times - Arts

But by the end of the year, we are likely to have a decision.

The Guardian - Tech

"We are likely to see the big recording companies focus their bets more".

The New York Times

"We are likely to have a vacancy by June, and we must be prepared".

The New York Times

Even if endorsed by the BMA, we are likely to reject it out of hand.

The Guardian - Opinion

We are likely to see growing demand for people in the care sector.

The Guardian

"We are likely to be up against the big bidders, but this is worth fighting for.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are likely to", ensure the context clearly supports the probability you're expressing. Avoid overusing it in close proximity to other similar phrases to maintain varied language.

Common error

Avoid using "we are likely to" when expressing near certainties or established facts. Use stronger verbs such as "will" or "is" to convey a higher degree of confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are likely to" functions as a modal construction expressing probability or expectation. It modifies a verb, indicating the likelihood of an action or event occurring. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used to make predictions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are likely to" is a versatile phrase used to express probability or expectation, supported by Ludwig AI as a valid and common expression. Its neutral register and widespread use in news and media make it a valuable tool for making informed predictions and observations. Remember to avoid overstating certainty and consider the context when choosing alternative phrases to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we will probably

This alternative uses "probably" to express likelihood, which is a direct synonym for "likely" but shortens the construction.

we are expected to

This phrase conveys an expectation or anticipation, often based on external factors or predictions, adding a nuance of anticipation.

it is probable that we will

This alternative uses a more formal construction to express probability. It's more emphatic but less concise.

chances are we will

This idiom suggests a good possibility, using a more informal and conversational tone, useful in less formal settings.

we are anticipated to

This implies a degree of expectation, often by someone else, framing the likelihood as externally driven.

we may well

This phrase uses "may well" to express a strong possibility, often suggesting that the outcome is not only possible but also reasonable or justified.

it is anticipated that we will

This formal alternative emphasizes that the expectation is widely held or officially recognized.

we are in line to

This conveys that we're next or scheduled, suggesting there's an order to the anticipation

it seems we'll

This softens the assertion of likelihood by introducing a sense of apparent observation.

we have a good chance to

This focuses on the opportunity available, framing the likelihood in terms of favorable odds or conditions.

FAQs

What does "we are likely to" mean?

The phrase "we are likely to" indicates a probability or expectation that something will happen. It suggests that based on current evidence or circumstances, a particular outcome is more probable than others.

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

Use "we are likely to" when you want to express a reasonable expectation or prediction. For example, "Given the current trend, we are likely to see an increase in remote work opportunities."

Are there any synonyms for "we are likely to"?

Yes, you can use phrases such as "we are expected to", "we will probably", or "chances are we will" as alternatives to "we are likely to", depending on the context.

Is "we are likely to" formal or informal?

"We are likely to" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal settings, consider using alternatives like "it is anticipated that we will" for added emphasis and formality.