will likely continue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "will likely continue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a prediction or expectation that something is expected to persist or carry on in the future. Example: "Given the current trends in technology, the demand for skilled workers in this field will likely continue to grow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The struggle to control religious institutions like al-Azhar and the mufti will likely continue.

The New York Times

The debate will likely continue.

The New Yorker

And it will likely continue.

The New York Times

FTAA will likely continue to strengthen corporate power over governments.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The kidnappings in the north will likely continue, many warn.

The New York Times

Interest in personalized medicine will likely continue to increase in the future.

Personalized Medicine Universe

Sea level rise has already caused more frequent and severe coastal flooding and this trend will likely continue.

Journal of Hydrology

There is growing evidence that the earth's climate is changing and will likely continue to change in the future.

Advances in Space Research

We conclude that Network Ecology will likely continue to grow because the forces driving its increase are likely to persist.

Ecological Modelling

The game will likely continue to evolve, as will those who play it.

The New York Times

Those agricultural jobs have attracted Hispanic workers, and will likely continue to.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "will likely continue", ensure that the context provides clear indications or evidence supporting the likelihood of continuation. Avoid using it for speculative or unfounded predictions.

Common error

Avoid using "will likely continue" when the outcome is highly uncertain or dependent on unpredictable factors. Consider using softer language like "might continue" or "could continue" to reflect genuine uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "will likely continue" functions as a modal verb phrase used to express a prediction or expectation about the future. It indicates that, based on current evidence or trends, something is probable to persist. Ludwig AI confirms this by providing numerous examples of its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

39%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "will likely continue" is a versatile and frequently used expression to indicate an expectation or prediction that something will persist in the future. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. While "will likely continue" is prevalent in news, science, and academic writing, it's essential to consider the level of certainty implied. For situations with higher uncertainty, consider alternatives like "might continue" or "could continue". In more formal settings, "is projected to continue" or "is expected to continue" can be used. Overall, understanding the nuances of this phrase and its alternatives will enhance the clarity and accuracy of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

will probably continue

Replaces "likely" with a direct synonym expressing probability.

is expected to continue

Replaces the modal verb with a more direct expression of expectation.

is anticipated to continue

Similar to "is expected", but implies a degree of preparation or foresight.

is projected to continue

Suggests a formal or data-driven forecast of continuation.

is poised to continue

Implies readiness or the conditions being favorable for continuation.

is set to continue

Indicates a predetermined or highly probable continuation.

is bound to continue

Conveys a sense of inevitability regarding the continuation.

is reasonably expected to continue

Adds emphasis to the expectation, making it sound well-reasoned.

will tend to continue

Shifts the focus to a tendency rather than a certainty of continuation.

is apt to continue

Similar to "will tend to continue" but slightly more formal.

FAQs

How do I use "will likely continue" in a sentence?

Use "will likely continue" to express that something is expected to persist or carry on in the future, based on current trends or conditions. For example: "Given the current trends in technology, the demand for skilled workers in this field "will likely continue" to grow."

What are some alternatives to "will likely continue"?

You can use alternatives like "is expected to continue", "is anticipated to continue", or "is projected to continue" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "will likely continue" formal or informal?

"Will likely continue" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, alternatives such as "is projected to continue" may be preferred.

What's the difference between "will likely continue" and "will definitely continue"?

"Will likely continue" indicates a high probability but not a certainty, while "will definitely continue" suggests absolute certainty. Using "will definitely continue" implies there is no doubt about the continuation.