a faint possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a faint possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or outcome that is unlikely but not impossible. Example: "There is a faint possibility that we might see a decrease in prices next quarter, but it's too early to tell."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

There's still a faint possibility that Suárez will wear the Liver bird again after he serves his suspension.

The Guardian - Sport

The Yankees were unaware of the trip when they issued their statement, so there is at least a faint possibility that a deal could be reached.

The New York Times

A few of the more than 800 coral species have already been declared extinct, but as long as the major reef builders continue to exist, there is a faint possibility that this complex systems can be rebuilt if temperatures stabilise.

The Guardian

There is still a faint possibility that the 38-year-old Matfield, now in the thick of his fourth global tournament, will start against the hot favourites for the Webb Ellis Cup.

Independent

If this deal slows the rate at which the North accumulates a nuclear arsenal, then it will have been worth something.And there is a faint possibility that it will lead to much more than that.

The Economist

Although the world of "Quai des Orfèvres" is in some ways confining, as urban life tends to be, here there seems to be at least a faint possibility of release — a way out, if you can find it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But he said there remained a very faint possibility of the scripted process going awry.

The Guardian

You can blame everything on the reorganisation.David Pugh Bergen, NorwayElection briefingSIR – It is wrong to suggest that if Aung San Suu Kyi is freed from detention (a rather faint possibility) she will be able to contest next year's election in Myanmar ("Re-engagement rings", October 3rd).

The Economist

And even the faint possibility of an airline inspector with a screwdriver uncrating a Calder sculpture or an early Renaissance tempera painting could be enough to cause collectors to think twice about loans or other shipments moving by commercial air.

The New York Times - Arts

West led the spade king, allowing for the faint possibility of a singleton queen in the dummy.

The New York Times - Arts

For his part, Mr Laws was so immediately at ease with the Conservatives that he scuppered the faint possibility of an alternative pact with Labour by making embrace of Tory-type cuts a precondition.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a faint possibility", consider providing context about what factors might influence this possibility to materialize, even if remotely. This provides a more complete picture to your audience.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the chances after using "a faint possibility". Don't follow it with language that implies a higher probability; maintain consistency in conveying the low likelihood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a faint possibility" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI examples show it describing scenarios with low probability, emphasizing unlikeliness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Sport

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a faint possibility" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote something that is unlikely but not entirely impossible. According to Ludwig AI, its register is generally neutral, allowing for diverse applications. Primarily found in news, media and science contexts, it serves the communicative purpose of expressing uncertainty and lowering expectations. When using this phrase, it is wise to provide appropriate context and avoid exaggerating likelihood. Similar phrases include ""a slim chance"" and ""a slight likelihood"". Overall, the phrase effectively communicates a low probability while acknowledging a minimal chance of occurrence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slim chance

Emphasizes the small likelihood of something happening.

a remote chance

Highlights the unlikelihood and distance of the opportunity.

a slight chance

Indicates a minimal degree of probability.

a distant possibility

Suggests that the event is far off and not very probable.

a small likelihood

Focuses on the low probability of an event.

a negligible prospect

Emphasizes that the likelihood is so small that it's almost nonexistent.

a bare possibility

Indicates the possibility barely exists.

a theoretical possibility

Highlights that possibility exists only in theory, not in practice.

a long shot

Colloquial way to express something unlikely to happen.

a far-fetched idea

Suggests an idea that is unlikely to be true or practical.

FAQs

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

Use "a faint possibility" to indicate that something is unlikely but not entirely impossible. For instance, "There's "a faint possibility" that the event will be rescheduled, but don't count on it."

What are some alternatives to "a faint possibility"?

Alternatives include "a slim chance", "a slight likelihood", or "a remote possibility". Choose the one that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever appropriate to use "a faint possibility" in formal writing?

Yes, "a faint possibility" is suitable for formal writing when you need to acknowledge a remote chance without overstating it. It's commonly used in reports, analyses, and professional communications.

What's the difference between "a faint possibility" and "a strong possibility"?

"A faint possibility" indicates a low likelihood, while "a strong possibility" suggests a high likelihood. Use "a faint possibility" when the event is unlikely, and "a strong possibility" when the event is probable.