Topics

Present

Past

Past to Present

Future

Abilities - Responsibilities

Asking Questions

Choosing the Right Phrase

Combining Verbs

Explaining Ideas

Describing Your World

Complex Ideas

Relating Ideas, People, Objects

Speaking about Objects

Wondering about Situations

Showing Probability

Common Phrases to Show Probability

There are many ways to show how certain you are about an opinion. These are some of the most common:

100% (Certain)

I'm sure that...
There's no doubt that...

Example:

I'm positive that the interest rate on that loan is negotiable.

I'm sure that a direct deposit account will be convenient.

75% (Probable)

This is likely to...
I expect that...
I wouldn't be surprised if...

Example:

I expect that I will use my overdraft protection liberally as prices go up and my salary goes down.

I expect that most credit card issuers will be amending their card holder agreements.

50% (Possible)

There's a chance that...
It's possible that...
Maybe...

Example:

She told me the amortization of the loan may decrease by next year.

It is possible that Acme Motors will get an endorsement from the new music star.

25% (Unlikely)

This probably isn't ...
I don't think that...
We are unlikely to...
I doubt that...

Example:

I doubt that we can process this credit application before 5:00 pm.

I doubt that we will be able to reduce our personnel costs.