Understanding phrases that convey probability or likelihood is essential for clear communication in English. One such phrase frequently used in both spoken and written English is are less likely to. This expression helps speakers and writers describe situations where something has a lower chance of occurring compared to another event or condition. It’s an important phrase for expressing comparisons, making predictions, or discussing risks. This topic explores the meaning, usage, grammar, and practical applications of are less likely to, along with examples to enhance understanding. Readers will learn how to use this phrase naturally and effectively in various contexts.
The Meaning of Are Less Likely To
The phrase are less likely to refers to a decreased probability or chance that something will happen or be true. It is often used when comparing two or more possibilities, showing that one outcome is not as probable as another. This phrase highlights a relative difference in likelihood rather than an absolute certainty or impossibility.
For example, when you say, People who exercise regularly are less likely to develop heart disease, it means that the chance of developing heart disease is lower for people who exercise regularly compared to those who do not.
Key Components
- Are: The verb form indicating the present tense plural subject.
- Less likely: The comparative form of likely, meaning lower probability.
- To: Followed by a verb to complete the idea of an action or event.
When combined, these components create a phrase that conveys reduced chances or probabilities.
Grammar and Structure
Are less likely to is typically used with plural subjects in the present tense. The verb following to is in its base form (infinitive without to when following to here is part of the infinitive construction). Here’s the basic structure:
[Subject plural] + are less likely to + [base verb]
Example: Children are less likely to eat vegetables if they don’t like the taste.
Singular Subject Variations
If the subject is singular, are changes to is.
Example: A person is less likely to succeed without effort.
Negative and Interrogative Forms
- Negative: They are not less likely to (though often replaced with clearer alternatives).
- Interrogative: Are they less likely to ?
These forms allow flexibility in expressing different ideas or asking questions.
Common Uses of Are Less Likely To
This phrase appears across various fields such as health, education, psychology, social studies, and everyday conversations. Here are some frequent uses:
Expressing Lower Risk or Probability
It is often used to describe people, groups, or things that have a reduced risk of experiencing certain outcomes.
- Smokers are less likely to have healthy lungs.
- Students who study regularly are less likely to fail exams.
Comparing Behaviors or Traits
It helps to compare likelihoods between different groups or conditions.
- People who eat fast food frequently are less likely to maintain a healthy weight.
- Employees with training are less likely to make errors.
Giving Advice or Recommendations
Often used to encourage positive behavior by highlighting decreased chances of negative consequences.
- If you exercise daily, you are less likely to suffer from stress.
- Wearing a seatbelt makes you less likely to get injured in a car accident.
Examples in Sentences
Seeing the phrase in different sentences helps to understand its versatility and proper use:
- People who sleep well are less likely to experience mental health issues.
- Students who participate in class discussions are less likely to forget the material.
- Countries with strong healthcare systems are less likely to face pandemics.
- Drivers who obey traffic rules are less likely to be involved in accidents.
- Pets that receive regular veterinary care are less likely to fall ill.
Understanding the Nuances
It’s important to recognize that are less likely to does not guarantee that the event will not happen; it simply indicates a reduced chance. This makes the phrase useful for balanced, realistic communication rather than absolute statements.
Synonyms and Alternative Expressions
There are other ways to express similar ideas, depending on context and tone:
- Have a lower chance of: They have a lower chance of catching the flu.
- Are at less risk of: Children are at less risk of accidents when supervised.
- Are unlikely to: People are unlikely to get sick after vaccination.
- Are not as likely to: Employees are not as likely to resign if they feel appreciated.
Choosing between these options depends on sentence structure and emphasis.
How to Use Are Less Likely To Effectively
To make your communication clear and natural, consider these tips:
- Match the subject and verb: Use is for singular and are for plural subjects.
- Follow with a base verb: For example, are less likely to smoke, is less likely to fail.
- Use comparisons: It works best when comparing two or more groups or outcomes.
- Be cautious with double negatives: Avoid confusing sentences by steering clear of negatives like not less likely.
- Provide context: Adding reasons or explanations can make the statement more informative.
Examples with Context
- People who eat fruits and vegetables daily are less likely to develop chronic diseases because of the nutrients they provide.
- Students who get enough sleep are less likely to feel tired during exams, improving their performance.li>
- Drivers who use hands-free devices are less likely to get distracted, reducing the chance of accidents.li>
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some errors occur when using this phrase, such as:
- Using are less likely to with singular subjects without changing are to is.
- Following the phrase with an incorrect verb form (should be the base form).
- Confusing the phrase with absolute statements or guarantees.
- Using it in unrelated contexts where probability is not relevant.
The phrase are less likely to is a versatile and useful expression for indicating decreased probability or chance. Whether in everyday conversation, academic writing, or professional communication, it helps to convey ideas about risk, behavior, and outcomes clearly and effectively. By understanding its meaning, grammatical rules, and usage, learners can confidently use this phrase to compare possibilities and express realistic predictions. Remember to use the phrase appropriately, ensuring subject-verb agreement and proper verb forms. With practice, are less likely to will become a natural part of your English vocabulary, enhancing both your writing and speaking skills.