Understanding how to express probability is crucial for clear and nuanced communication. The phrase “more likely” is frequently used to indicate a higher chance of something occurring, but relying on it exclusively can make your writing and speech repetitive.
This article explores a wide range of synonyms and alternative expressions for “more likely,” providing you with the tools to vary your language and convey subtle differences in probability. Whether you’re an English language learner, a student honing your writing skills, or a professional aiming for more precise communication, this guide will enhance your vocabulary and improve your ability to express likelihood effectively.
Table of Contents
- Definition of “More Likely”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Synonyms
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “More Likely”
The phrase “more likely” signifies a greater probability or chance of something happening compared to something else. It’s used to express that one event or outcome is more probable or has a higher degree of possibility than another.
“Likely” itself means having a high probability of occurring or being true. Adding “more” intensifies this probability, indicating a comparative assessment of different potential outcomes.
In grammatical terms, “more likely” functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It often appears in comparative constructions, comparing the likelihood of two or more events.
The phrase can also act as an adverbial modifier, describing the verb in terms of probability.
The context in which “more likely” is used often dictates the best synonym to employ. For instance, a scientific context might call for a statistically-driven synonym, while a casual conversation might be better suited to an informal expression.
Understanding these nuances is key to effective communication.
Structural Breakdown
The phrase “more likely” consists of two main components: the comparative adjective “more” and the adjective “likely.” The word “more” is a comparative adjective used to form the comparative degree of adjectives and adverbs. It indicates a greater degree of a quality.
“Likely” is an adjective that describes something as probable or expected.
The structure “more likely” typically appears in sentences comparing two or more possibilities. It can be followed by “than” to explicitly state the comparison.
For example, “It is more likely to rain tomorrow than today.” Alternatively, the comparison can be implicit, relying on context to understand what is being compared. For example, “Given the current weather patterns, rain is more likely.”
Grammatically, “more likely” can also be part of a more complex phrase, such as “much more likely,” “significantly more likely,” or “far more likely.” These variations further emphasize the degree of probability. Additionally, “more likely” can be used with adverbs that modify adjectives, such as “highly likely” which is a synonym itself.
Types and Categories of Synonyms
The English language offers a rich variety of synonyms for “more likely,” each with slightly different connotations and levels of formality. These can be broadly classified into the following categories:
Synonyms Indicating Higher Probability
These synonyms suggest a strong expectation that something will occur. They convey a sense of near certainty.
Synonyms Indicating Strong Possibility
These synonyms emphasize that something is quite possible, though not necessarily certain. They indicate a good chance of occurrence.
Synonyms Indicating Statistical Probability
These synonyms are used in contexts where the probability can be quantified or assessed based on data. They are common in scientific and analytical writing.
Informal Expressions
These synonyms are suitable for casual conversation and informal writing. They often convey a sense of personal opinion or belief.
Examples
The following examples illustrate the use of various synonyms for “more likely” in different contexts. Each category of synonyms is presented with a dedicated table containing numerous examples.
Examples of Higher Probability Synonyms
This table provides examples of synonyms that suggest a high probability, almost bordering on certainty. These are appropriate when you want to convey a strong expectation of something happening.
| Synonym | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Almost certainly | Given his track record, he is almost certainly going to win the election. |
| Highly probable | With the current market trends, a price increase is highly probable. |
| Very likely | Considering the weather forecast, rain is very likely this afternoon. |
| Odds are | Odds are, they will accept our proposal. |
| In all likelihood | In all likelihood, the project will be completed on time. |
| Practically certain | It’s practically certain that he’ll be offered the job after such a successful interview. |
| Sure to | With her talent and dedication, she is sure to succeed. |
| Bound to | If you leave your car unlocked in this neighborhood, it’s bound to get stolen. |
| Virtually certain | The outcome is virtually certain given the overwhelming evidence. |
| Undoubtedly | He will undoubtedly be the star player of the team. |
| Without a doubt | Without a doubt, she will be a successful doctor. |
| Most certainly | They will most certainly attend the conference. |
| Definitely | He will definitely be late. |
| Positively | She will positively enjoy the concert. |
| Assuredly | He will assuredly win the race. |
| To be expected | Given the circumstances, that outcome was to be expected. |
| Predictable | His reaction was entirely predictable. |
| Foreseeable | The consequences were foreseeable. |
| Almost a certainty | His victory is almost a certainty. |
| Cannot be ruled out | Her participation cannot be ruled out. |
| Presumably | Presumably, they will arrive on time. |
| Reasonably certain | We are reasonably certain of the results. |
| Safe bet | It’s a safe bet that he will agree. |
| Highly anticipated | Her arrival is highly anticipated. |
| Widely expected | The announcement is widely expected. |
Examples of Strong Possibility Synonyms
This table provides examples of synonyms that indicate a strong possibility, but not necessarily certainty. These are useful when you want to convey a good chance of something happening without overstating the probability.
| Synonym | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Quite likely | It is quite likely that the meeting will be postponed. |
| Probably | She will probably accept the invitation. |
| Possibly | It is possibly going to snow tonight. |
| Conceivably | Conceivably, they could win the championship. |
| Potentially | The new policy could potentially increase productivity. |
| May well | He may well decide to move to a new city. |
| Could well | She could well be the next CEO. |
| A good chance | There’s a good chance they’ll offer him the position. |
| A strong possibility | There is a strong possibility of rain tomorrow. |
| Feasible | It is feasible to complete the project by the deadline. |
| Plausible | His explanation seemed plausible. |
| Credible | Her story was credible enough to be believed. |
| Within the realm of possibility | That outcome is within the realm of possibility. |
| Not unlikely | It is not unlikely that he will succeed. |
| Reasonably possible | It’s reasonably possible to achieve our goals. |
| Within reason | It’s within reason to expect a positive outcome. |
| Believable | His excuse was believable, so we let him off the hook. |
| Likely enough | It’s likely enough that they’ll come to the party. |
| On the cards | A promotion is on the cards for her. |
| Within the bounds of possibility | Such a scenario is within the bounds of possibility, although unlikely. |
| Quite possibly | They could quite possibly decide to change their minds. |
| Perhaps | Perhaps they will come to the meeting after all. |
| Maybe | Maybe she’ll call later. |
| Conceivably | Conceivably, he could be telling the truth. |
| Potentially | This new drug could potentially revolutionize medicine. |
Examples of Statistical Probability Synonyms
This table provides examples of synonyms that are used to express probability in a statistical or analytical context. These are useful when you need to convey precise probabilities based on data or calculations.
| Synonym | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Statistically significant | The results showed a statistically significant increase in sales. |
| A high probability | There is a high probability of success based on the data. |
| A significant chance | There is a significant chance of error in the calculation. |
| A marked likelihood | There is a marked likelihood of improvement in the patient’s condition. |
| With a high degree of certainty | We can predict the outcome with a high degree of certainty based on the model. |
| With a good degree of confidence | We can say with a good degree of confidence that the trend will continue. |
| A preponderance of evidence suggests | A preponderance of evidence suggests that the hypothesis is correct. |
| The odds favor | The odds favor a positive outcome in this case. |
| More often than not | More often than not, the system performs as expected. |
| A higher incidence | There is a higher incidence of the disease in this region. |
| Elevated risk | There is an elevated risk of complications. |
| Increased probability | There is an increased probability of accidents during rush hour. |
| Greater likelihood | There is a greater likelihood of success with this approach. |
| Higher frequency | There is a higher frequency of errors with the old system. |
| A statistically higher chance | There is a statistically higher chance of recovery with the new treatment. |
| A significant correlation | There is a significant correlation between exercise and health. |
| A notable increase | There is a notable increase in customer satisfaction. |
| A marked improvement | There is a marked improvement in performance. |
| With a statistically valid basis | We can conclude this with a statistically valid basis. |
| Based on the data | Based on the data, we can predict the trend. |
| According to the analysis | According to the analysis, the results are promising. |
| The data suggests | The data suggests a positive correlation. |
| Empirical evidence indicates | Empirical evidence indicates that the theory is sound. |
| The trend implies | The trend implies a continued increase. |
| Modeling suggests | Modeling suggests that the impact will be significant. |
Examples of Informal Expressions
This table provides examples of informal expressions that can be used as synonyms for “more likely” in casual conversation or informal writing. These expressions often convey a sense of personal opinion or belief.
| Synonym | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Chances are | Chances are, they’ll be late. |
| I’d bet | I’d bet he’s already left. |
| I reckon | I reckon it’ll rain tomorrow. |
| It figures | It figures that he’d forget his wallet. |
| My guess is | My guess is they’ll announce the news soon. |
| I wouldn’t be surprised if | I wouldn’t be surprised if they got married. |
| It’s a good bet | It’s a good bet she’ll win the competition. |
| You can bet your bottom dollar | You can bet your bottom dollar he’ll try to get out of it. |
| I have a feeling | I have a feeling they’ll agree to our terms. |
| Mark my words | Mark my words, this will be a success. |
| You can take it to the bank | You can take it to the bank, he’ll deliver. |
| It’s on the cards | A promotion is on the cards for Sarah. |
| I wouldn’t rule it out | I wouldn’t rule it out that he’ll change his mind. |
| As like as not | As like as not, they’ll be stuck in traffic. |
| Ten to one | Ten to one, he’ll forget the appointment. |
| Safe to say | It’s safe to say that she’ll be pleased with the results. |
| I’d say | I’d say they will arrive late. |
| I’m inclined to think | I’m inclined to think that he’s telling the truth. |
| I’m betting on | I’m betting on them winning the game. |
| I’m banking on | I’m banking on him to deliver the presentation. |
| I’m pretty sure | I’m pretty sure she’ll like the gift. |
| I’m fairly certain | I’m fairly certain that he’ll agree. |
| I’m willing to bet | I’m willing to bet they’ll arrive late. |
| It stands to reason | It stands to reason that they’ll accept our proposal. |
Complex Examples Illustrating Nuance
This section provides complex examples that illustrate how different synonyms for “more likely” can be used to convey subtle differences in meaning and tone. These examples demonstrate how to choose the most appropriate synonym for a given context.
| Original Sentence | Synonym | Revised Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| It is more likely to rain tomorrow than today. | Highly probable | It is highly probable that it will rain tomorrow, given the approaching storm front. | “Highly probable” emphasizes a stronger expectation of rain due to the weather conditions. |
| She is more likely to get the job because of her experience. | Chances are | Chances are, she’ll get the job, considering her extensive experience. | “Chances are” provides a more informal and conversational tone. |
| The company is more likely to invest in renewable energy. | Increasingly inclined | The company is increasingly inclined to invest in renewable energy, driven by environmental concerns and government incentives. | “Increasingly inclined” suggests a growing tendency or preference. |
| He is more likely to succeed if he works harder. | Bound to | He is bound to succeed if he dedicates himself to working harder. | “Bound to” implies a near certainty of success with increased effort. |
| The project is more likely to be completed on time with additional resources. | With a good degree of confidence | We can complete the project on time with a good degree of confidence if we allocate additional resources. | “With a good degree of confidence” provides a more professional and analytical tone. |
| It’s more likely that the price will increase in the near future. | Almost certainly | The price will almost certainly increase in the near future, due to rising demand and limited supply. | “Almost certainly” provides a stronger sense of conviction about the price increase. |
| She is more likely to accept the offer. | I’d bet | I’d bet she’ll accept the offer; it’s too good to pass up. | “I’d bet” gives a personal, confident opinion on the offer acceptance. |
| They are more likely to win the competition. | The odds favor | The odds favor them winning the competition, given their skill and preparation. | “The odds favor” indicates that the chances are in their favor from a statistical point of view. |
| It’s more likely to snow in December than in August. | Highly improbable | It’s highly improbable that it will snow in August, compared to December. | Using the antonym “highly improbable” emphasizes the unlikelihood of snow in August. |
| He is more likely to call you back later. | Safe to say | It’s safe to say that he’ll call you back later, as he always keeps his promises. | “Safe to say” provides assurance that he will indeed call back. |
Usage Rules
While the synonyms for “more likely” offer variety, it’s crucial to use them correctly. Here are some key usage rules to keep in mind:
- Formality Level: Choose synonyms that match the formality of the context. Avoid using informal expressions in professional or academic writing.
- Degree of Probability: Select synonyms that accurately reflect the degree of probability you want to convey. Some synonyms suggest near certainty, while others indicate a weaker possibility.
- Contextual Appropriateness: Consider the specific context and choose synonyms that fit the subject matter. Statistical synonyms are appropriate for scientific or analytical writing, while other synonyms may be better suited for general conversation.
- Clarity and Precision: Ensure that your chosen synonym is clear and unambiguous. Avoid using overly complex or obscure words that could confuse your audience.
- Avoid Overuse: Don’t overuse any single synonym. Vary your language to maintain interest and avoid repetition.
- Subjectivity vs. Objectivity: Be mindful of the level of subjectivity or objectivity. Phrases like “I reckon” are subjective, while phrases like “statistically significant” are objective.
Understanding these rules will help you use synonyms for “more likely” effectively and accurately.
Common Mistakes
Using synonyms for “more likely” incorrectly can lead to miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| He is almost certainly to arrive late. | He is almost certainly going to arrive late. | The correct construction is “almost certainly going to” or “almost certain to be.” |
| It’s more likely that I will can go. | It’s more likely that I will be able to go. | “Can” is already an auxiliary verb indicating ability; using “will can” is redundant. |
| The odds are high that she will wins. | The odds are high that she will win. | After “will,” use the base form of the verb. |
| I reckon it will rains tomorrow. | I reckon it will rain tomorrow. | After “will,” use the base form of the verb. |
| She is probably to be there. | She is probably going to be there. | The correct construction is “probably going to be.” |
| It is bound that he will fail. | He is bound to fail. | The correct construction is “bound to fail.” |
| It’s have a good chance that it will happen. | There’s a good chance that it will happen. | The correct phrase is “There’s a good chance.” |
| He may be can help you. | He may be able to help you. | Avoid using “can” after “may be”; use “able to” instead. |
| It’s sure that he will come. | It’s sure to happen that he will come. | The correct construction is “It’s sure to happen”. |
| I’m having a feeling that he is lying. | I have a feeling that he is lying. | The correct tense is “I have a feeling.” |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of synonyms for “more likely” with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate synonym for “more likely.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Given his experience, he is ______ to get the promotion. | Bound |
| It is ______ that the meeting will be postponed due to the weather. | Quite likely |
| ______ , they will announce the results tomorrow. | Chances are |
| Based on the data, there is a ______ of success with this approach. | High probability |
| She ______ accept the offer; it’s too good to refuse. | Will probably |
| The project is ______ to be completed on time, given the current progress. | Likely |
| ______ that he will forget the appointment. He always does. | Ten to one |
| The company is ______ to invest in new technology to stay competitive. | Increasingly inclined |
| ______ that the stock market will crash soon. | It is possible |
| He is ______ to succeed if he continues to work hard. | Sure |
Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using a synonym for “more likely” that conveys a higher degree of certainty.
| Original Sentence | Revised Sentence |
|---|---|
| It is more likely to rain tomorrow. | It is almost certain to rain tomorrow. |
| She is more likely to win the competition. | She is bound to win the competition. |
| He is more likely to be late. | He will undoubtedly be late. |
| They are more likely to agree to our proposal. | They will most certainly agree to our proposal. |
| The project is more likely to be successful. | The project is virtually certain to be successful. |
Exercise 3: Choose the best synonym for “more likely” in each sentence, considering the context.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| (Scientific context) The study shows a ______ correlation between diet and health. | a) probably b) statistically significant c) I reckon | b) statistically significant |
| (Informal conversation) ______, they’ll be late. They always are. | a) Chances are b) Highly probable c) With a high degree of certainty | a) Chances are |
| (Professional setting) With the new strategy, we are ______ to achieve our goals. | a) maybe b) bound c) with a good degree of confidence | c) with a good degree of confidence |
| (General statement) It is ______ that the weather will improve soon. | a) as like as not b) quite likely c) undoubtedly | b) quite likely |
| (Personal opinion) ______, he’s telling the truth. | a) I reckon b) virtually certain c) statistically significant | a) I reckon |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider exploring these more complex aspects of expressing probability:
- Conditional Probability: Understanding how the probability of an event changes based on the occurrence of another event.
- Bayesian Inference: Using prior knowledge to update the probability of a hypothesis as new evidence becomes available.
- Risk Assessment: Quantifying the likelihood and impact of potential risks.
- The use of modal verbs: Understanding how modal verbs such as ‘might’, ‘could’, and ‘should’ affect the likelihood of an event.
- The subtle differences between near synonyms: Exploring the nuances between words like ‘probable’, ‘possible’, and ‘conceivable’.
These topics delve into the more sophisticated applications of probability in various fields.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about synonyms for “more likely”:
- Q: Is there a single best synonym for “more likely”?
A: No, the best synonym depends on the context, the desired level of formality, and the degree of probability you want to convey. Consider the specific situation and choose the word that best fits.
- Q: How can I avoid sounding repetitive when expressing probability?
A: Use a variety of synonyms and alternative expressions. Mix formal and informal language as appropriate. Also, vary your sentence structure to make your writing more engaging.
- Q: What’s the difference between “probable” and “possible”?
A: “Probable” suggests a higher likelihood than “possible.” Something that is probable is likely to happen, while something that is possible simply has a chance of happening.
- Q: Can I use informal expressions in academic writing?
A: Generally, no. Academic writing requires a formal tone. Avoid using slang, colloquialisms, and informal expressions.
- Q: How do I express a very low probability?
A: Use phrases like “highly unlikely,” “improbable,” “remote chance,” or “virtually impossible.”
- Q: Are there any synonyms for “more likely” that should be avoided?
A: Avoid using overly vague or ambiguous words. Also, be cautious of using synonyms that are not widely understood or that have negative connotations.
- Q: How can I improve my vocabulary of probability-related terms?
A: Read widely, pay attention to how different authors express probability, and use a thesaurus to explore alternative words and phrases. Practice using new words in your own writing and speech.
- Q: Is “liable” a synonym for “likely?”
A: While sometimes used interchangeably, “liable” often implies an undesirable outcome. For example, “He is liable to get into trouble” suggests a negative consequence is likely.
Conclusion
Mastering synonyms for “more likely” allows you to express probability with greater nuance and precision. By understanding the different categories of synonyms, their usage rules, and common mistakes to avoid, you can enhance your communication skills and write and speak with greater confidence.
Remember to consider the context, formality level, and desired degree of probability when choosing the most appropriate synonym.
Continue to practice using these synonyms in your writing and speech to solidify your understanding. Pay attention to how native speakers use these expressions and incorporate them into your own vocabulary.
With consistent effort, you’ll be able to express probability effectively and accurately, enriching your communication and making your message more impactful. Happy learning!