Expressing Likelihood and Possibility
Listen to four conversations using the grammar point.
Expressing Likelihood and Possibility
Hear four conversations using this grammar point for free on elllo.org
Answer the following questions about the interview.
Expressing Likelihood and Possibility
Point 1: Speakers can hedge their statements by adding a clause to express probability. The pronoun 'it' becomes the subject,
- We probably will not finish on time.
It is unlikely that we will finish on time. - We will probably reach our goal.
It's highly likely that we will reach out goal.
Point 2: If something is probable, then it is likely.
- The company will probably go bankrupt.
It is highly likely the company will go bankrupt. - Most students should pass the class.
It is very likely that most students will pass the class.
Point 3: If something is not probable, then use unlikely or not likely.
- The event is in winter, so it probably not be warm outside.
The event is in winter, so it is unlikely it will be warm outside. - By the end of the money, most of my money will probably be spent.
By the end of the month, it is unlikely that I will have any money left.
Point 4: Something adverbs highly (strong) and fairly (medium) add intensity.
- It is highly unlikely that we finish by tomorrow. (low chance)
- It is highly likely that the two companies merge. (strong chance)
- It is fairly likely that the event will be canceled. (might happen)
- It is fairly unlikely that that will happen. (probably not)
Point 5: Likelihood is also expressed with the nouns chance, possibility, and doubt.
- There is a good chance it will rain.
- There is a strong possibility that we can work from home.
- There is a slight possibility that I get transferred
- There is no doubt that people want to travel again.
About the Teacher
My name is Todd Beuckens and I am an ESL teacher in Thailand. I created this site to provide teachers and students free audio lessons and learning materials not usually found in commercial textbooks.