Apt, liable, and likely are words with similar meanings. They’re often exchanged for one another. The words, however, have their nuances.
To be “apt” is to “have a tendency.” It’s being prone to doing something. For instance, I’m apt to have a cup of coffee in the morning. It’s a tendency rather than a routine; on Sundays, I forego the cup of coffee until later in the day. I avail myself of the caffeine oasis found at church.
“Liable” normally means “in danger of.” While it’s sometimes used in place of “likely,” it shouldn’t be. The word doesn’t suit the occasion. It should be reserved for situations that hold undesirable consequences. The word holds a connotation of responsibility, explaining why McDonald’s and Starbucks all feature “caution: hot beverage” on the coffee cup lids. They don’t want to be held liable for the foolhardiness of people who drink their cappuccinos without heeding the temperature.
“Likely” means “probably.” I’m likely to develop a caffeine headache if I don’t have a cup of coffee. I’m likely to spill coffee on my skirt if I don’t confirm the lid is solidly in place. I am at fault in that scene; I, and no one else, am liable for the damage done to my clothing.
Have a question for Write Right? Leave one in a comment or on the Facebook page!