Hedging: 'It is likely/unlikely that'

This pattern uses what we call a dummy subject. The word it doesn't actually refer to a specific object. It is just a placeholder to start the sentence. This shifts the focus away from the speaker. Instead of saying "I think," you are focusing on the probability itself. It sounds more objective and less like a personal opinion. It is a very "distanced" way of speaking. Imagine you are a weather reporter or a financial analyst. You want to report the facts without sounding like you are guessing. This structure provides that professional distance. It is like wearing a suit for your sentences. It adds a layer of formal polish to your ideas.

1. 1Creating these sentences is quite simple if you follow these steps:
2. 2Start with the dummy subject It.
3. 3Add the linking verb is (or was for the past).
4. 4Insert your probability adjective: likely or unlikely.
5. 5Add the conjunction that to connect your ideas.
6. 6Finish with a full clause (subject + verb).
7. 7Structure: It + is + likely/unlikely + that + [Clause].
8. 8Example: It is likely that the meeting will be postponed.
9. 9You can also add modifiers to change the strength. Use highly, very, or quite before likely. For example: It is highly unlikely that he will arrive on time. This gives you even more control over your message.

Use this when you are making predictions based on data. It is perfect for a job interview. You might say, "It is likely that my skills will benefit the team." Use it when discussing future trends in business. "It is unlikely that prices will drop this year." It is also great for being polite. If you have to give bad news, hedging softens the blow. "It is unlikely that we can offer a refund today." It sounds much kinder than a blunt "No." You will also see this in news reports and scientific papers. It shows that the writer is being careful with the truth. Yes, even native speakers use this to avoid getting into trouble!

Do not use this for absolute facts. If the sun is shining, don't say, "It is likely that it is sunny." That sounds like you are a robot or very confused. Avoid it in very casual text messages with close friends. It might make you sound a bit too stiff or robotic. "It is likely that I will see you at the pub" sounds like a business contract. Just say "I'll probably see you there" instead. Also, avoid overusing it in a single paragraph. If every sentence starts with It is likely that, your writing will feel repetitive. Variety is the spice of life and grammar!

One big mistake is forgetting the word is. You cannot say "It likely that..." This is a very common slip-up. Another error is forgetting the word that. While you can sometimes drop it in speech, keep it in writing. Don't confuse likely with probably. Probably is an adverb and moves around the sentence. Likely is an adjective here and stays after the verb be. Also, watch your clause structure. Make sure the part after that is a complete sentence. Don't say "It is likely that rain." Say "It is likely that it will rain." Small details make a huge difference in C1 English!

You might know the phrase He is likely to go. This is very similar to It is likely that he will go. The It... that version is usually more formal. It focuses on the situation rather than the person. Another alternative is using Maybe or Perhaps. These are much simpler and less formal. It is likely that carries more weight and authority. It suggests you have a reason for your belief. Maybe can sound like a random guess. If you want to sound like an expert, stick with the It is likely that structure. It shows you are playing in the big leagues of English.