more often than not
Definition
Adverb: Usually; in most cases; more than half the time. It indicates that something happens with greater frequency than it does not happen.
Usage
This adverbial phrase is used to describe a general tendency or a common outcome, rather than an absolute certainty. It is typically placed at the beginning or the end of a clause.
Examples
- More often than not, the simplest solution is the best one.
- She arrives late, more often than not.
- When I try to cook something new, more often than not, it turns out well.
Advanced Usage
- In formal or analytical writing: The phrase can be used to summarize a statistical trend or a predominant pattern without claiming it is universal.
- The data shows that, more often than not, patients responded positively to the treatment.
Variants and Related Words
- As often as not: A less common variant with a very similar meaning.
- As often as not, he forgets his keys.
Synonyms
- Usually
- Generally
- Typically
- Most of the time
- In general
- As a rule
Related Phrases
- Nine times out of ten: An idiomatic expression with a similar meaning, implying a very high probability.
- Nine times out of ten, he takes the bus to work.
Adverb
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usually; as a rule
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by and large it doesn't rain much here
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