a definite possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definite possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is likely to happen or is a strong option among other possibilities. Example: "Given the current circumstances, a definite possibility is that we will need to adjust our plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"An operation is a definite possibility but we are hoping it definitely won't be before the World Cup.

BBC

Game 3 is a definite possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a definite possibility," said Sting's manager, Kathy Shenker.

The New York Times

"I'm expecting him to play, but that's a definite possibility".

The New York Times

At this stage, that is a definite possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

And against Oregon State's aggressive defense, that's a definite possibility.

The New York Times

Automobile Magazine reports that it's a definite possibility.

The New York Times

It's a definite possibility," said Williams on the 2014 Masters being his last.

The Guardian - Sport

"You'd need an M.R.I. to find out, but I would say it's a definite possibility".

The New York Times - Sports

"So I think playing the two of them together is a definite possibility".

The New York Times - Sports

Assessing plans, Candy added: "It [Breeders' Cup] is a definite possibility.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definite possibility" when you want to convey a strong sense of likelihood or potential, but avoid overusing it in contexts that require more precise probability assessments.

Common error

Avoid using "a definite possibility" when the outcome is highly uncertain. Instead, opt for phrases like "a remote chance" or "a slim possibility" to accurately reflect the level of uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite possibility" functions as a noun phrase that describes the likelihood of a particular event or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

17%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite possibility" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to express a strong chance or likelihood of an event. Ludwig AI confirms its broad usability. It appears most often in news and media contexts, as shown by Ludwig's examples, but is also found in scientific discourse. When writing, it's important to use this phrase when there's substantial evidence supporting the potential outcome, and to avoid it when discussing highly improbable scenarios. Related phrases like "a strong likelihood" and "a real prospect" can serve as effective alternatives depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong likelihood

Highlights the high probability of something occurring.

a plausible outcome

Indicates that a result is reasonable and likely given the circumstances.

a distinct chance

Emphasizes the clarity and notability of the chance.

a real prospect

Focuses on the potential for future success or occurrence.

a credible scenario

Implies that the situation is believable and could realistically happen.

a viable option

Suggests that something is practical and capable of working.

a conceivable event

Suggests that an occurrence is imaginable or possible.

within the realm of possibility

States that something is possible, although not necessarily probable.

potentially

A single word that express the same possibility

conceivably

A single word that express the same possibility

FAQs

How to use "a definite possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite possibility" to express a strong chance of something happening. For example: "With the new strategy in place, success is "a definite possibility"."

What can I say instead of "a definite possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "a strong likelihood", "a real prospect", or "a plausible outcome" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a definite possibility" or "a possible definite"?

"A definite possibility" is the correct and idiomatic phrasing. "A possible definite" is not a standard expression and would sound unnatural.

What's the difference between "a definite possibility" and "a slight possibility"?

"A definite possibility" indicates a strong chance or high likelihood, while "a slight possibility" suggests a very low chance or remote likelihood. They are used to express opposite ends of the probability spectrum.