The phrase be likely to” is a commonly used expression in English that conveys probability or a strong chance that something will happen. It often appears in everyday conversations, academic writing, news topics, and business communication. Understanding the meaning and correct usage of “be likely to” helps English learners and native speakers alike express possibilities more clearly and confidently. While it may seem simple at first glance, this phrase holds important grammatical and contextual significance worth exploring in detail.
Definition of “Be Likely To”
Be likely to is used to indicate that something is probable or expected to occur based on current circumstances, evidence, or past patterns. The phrase typically follows a subject and a form of the verb “to be” (such as is, are, was, were, etc.), and is followed by a base verb.
StructureSubject + be (am/is/are/was/were) + likely to + base verb
ExampleSheis likely toarrive early.
In this sentence, the speaker believes there is a high chance that she will arrive early.
Synonyms and Similar Expressions
There are several expressions that carry similar meanings to be likely to. These alternatives can be used based on tone, formality, or personal preference.
- Probably
- Expected to
- Will most likely
- Chances are
- It is probable that
ExampleHeis likely towin the race. = He willprobablywin the race.
Using “Be Likely To” in Different Tenses
The verb “to be” in the phrase can change depending on the tense, allowing speakers to talk about likelihood in the past, present, or future.
Present Tense
Structureis/are + likely to + base verb
Examples
- The studentsare likely tofinish the project today.
- Itis likely torain this evening.
Past Tense
Structurewas/were + likely to + base verb
Examples
- Shewas likely toaccept the offer last week.
- Theywere likely tobe delayed because of traffic.
Future Tense
Structurewill be + likely to + base verb
Examples
- Hewill be likely toattend the conference.
- The new policywill be likely toaffect small businesses.
Common Contexts for “Be Likely To”
Be likely to is used in many real-life situations to express probability. Below are some typical contexts where the phrase appears.
1. Weather Forecasts
ExampleItis likely tosnow tomorrow.
2. Predictions and Future Events
ExampleTechnologyis likely toevolve rapidly in the next decade.
3. Business and Economy
ExampleSalesare likely toincrease during the holiday season.
4. Personal Plans or Expectations
ExampleTheyare likely tovisit us this weekend.
5. News and Reporting
ExampleThe governmentis likely toannounce new tax reforms.
Negatives and Questions
Negative Form
To express that something is unlikely or improbable, simply add not after the verb “to be.”
Examples
- Heis not likely toagree with the decision.
- Theywere not likely tofinish on time.
Question Form
To ask about probability using this structure, invert the subject and the verb “to be.”
Examples
- Isshelikely towin the competition?
- Arewelikely toget a response today?
Difference Between “Likely To” and “Will”
Be likely to expresses a high probability but not certainty. Will expresses stronger confidence and sometimes certainty.
ExampleHeis likely tocome. (There’s a strong chance.) Hewillcome. (The speaker is certain.)
Use be likely to when you want to show cautious optimism or measured prediction. Use will when you want to sound more definite.
Tips for Proper Use
- Make sure the verb “to be” agrees with the subject in number and tense.
- Follow likely to with the base form of the verb (e.g., go, speak, win).
- Use not after the verb “to be” for negative forms.
- Avoid double modals like will be likely might. Choose one modal only.
Examples in Full Sentences
- Touristsare likely tovisit the area during the summer months.
- The babyis not likely tosleep through the night.
- Itwas likely tocause delays on the train line.
- Arewelikely toreach our destination before dark?
- The new productwill be likely toattract more customers.
Be likely to is a versatile and widely used expression that helps convey probability in a clear and structured way. It is suitable for both spoken and written English and works across various contexts from casual conversation to formal reports. Understanding how to use this phrase accurately, including its negative and question forms, allows speakers to express expectations and predictions more naturally. Whether you’re writing an academic essay, giving a weather update, or simply making a plan, mastering the phrase be likely to will greatly improve the effectiveness and clarity of your English communication.