a distinct possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct possibility" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means that something is likely to occur or happen. You can use it whenever you want to express a strong possibility or probability of something happening. For example: - There is a distinct possibility that it will rain tomorrow, so don't forget to bring an umbrella. - Winning the lottery is a long shot, but it's still a distinct possibility. - With the current state of the economy, job layoffs are a distinct possibility. - Despite the challenges, there is still a distinct possibility of finding a solution. - We can't ignore the fact that there is a distinct possibility of a second wave of the virus.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

More attempts and possible attacks are a distinct possibility".

The New York Times

A "possible" meeting with Jane Austen, suggested by another writer, grows into "a distinct possibility".

The New York Times - Books

This is a distinct possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

A distinct possibility, no doubt.

The New Yorker

Hefty fines are a distinct possibility.

The Economist

Death is a distinct possibility".

The Guardian

Injuries, apparently, are a distinct possibility.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, that is now a distinct possibility.

The Economist

Yes, tears were a distinct possibility.

The New York Times

The latter is a distinct possibility.

The New York Times

Does it remain a distinct possibility?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a distinct possibility" when you want to convey a strong sense of likelihood, but avoid overusing it in close succession within the same piece of writing. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct possibility" when the situation is purely speculative or lacks any concrete evidence. Reserve it for scenarios where there is a tangible basis for the likelihood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct possibility" functions as a qualifier, expressing the probability or likelihood of a particular event or outcome. It modifies a noun or noun phrase, indicating that the event being described is more than just a vague or theoretical chance. Ludwig AI corroborates this with numerous examples demonstrating its function in real-world contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct possibility" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that conveys a notable chance or likelihood of something happening. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples shows that it functions as a qualifier, serving to inform and prepare audiences for potential outcomes across diverse contexts. While suitable for both formal and informal communication, it leans towards a neutral or professional register, particularly within news and business sources. When using this phrase, consider diversifying your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement and ensure that the situation warrants a strong sense of likelihood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong likelihood

Emphasizes the high probability of something happening.

a real chance

Highlights the genuineness and tangibility of the possibility.

a definite prospect

Suggests that the possibility is well-defined and foreseeable.

a credible scenario

Focuses on the believability and plausibility of the possibility.

a viable option

Presents the possibility as a feasible and workable choice.

a foreseeable outcome

Implies that the possibility is predictable based on current circumstances.

a significant prospect

Highlights that the possibility is worthy of attention.

a plausible eventuality

Highlights the believability of something that may occur in the future.

a considerable contingency

Implies the possibility is a factor that needs to be taken into account.

a noteworthy potential

Emphasizes that the possibility is worthy of being noted.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinct possibility" to express that something is likely to happen. For example, "Given the current economic climate, a recession is "a distinct possibility"".

What are some alternatives to "a distinct possibility"?

Alternatives include "a strong likelihood", "a real chance", or "a definite prospect", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "distinct possibility" formal or informal?

"Distinct possibility" is generally considered suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, you might consider alternatives like "a significant prospect".

What's the difference between "a distinct possibility" and "a remote possibility"?

"A distinct possibility" suggests that something is quite likely to occur, while "a remote possibility" implies that something is unlikely but not entirely impossible. They are opposite in meaning.