a greater possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a greater possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or chance of something occurring in comparison to other options. Example: "With the new evidence presented, there is a greater possibility that the theory may be valid."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There's a greater possibility of that happening than even yesterday".

The New York Times - Sports

He admitted that he deliberately created confusion to achieve "a greater possibility of invention".

The Guardian - Film

He has a freer hand there, and a greater possibility of gaining bipartisan support.

The Guardian

The kids playing on the street corner would have a greater possibility of being found.

The Guardian - Sport

While by no means certain, it is now a greater possibility.

The New York Times

"There's also a greater possibility that this primitive comparison is an absurdity raised to the highest exponent conceivable!" he writes.

The New York Times - Books

"If we look for people in the same area again and again, there's a greater possibility to find them.

The New York Times

There is a greater possibility that it will be in Pasadena, Calif., against a Pacific-10 Conference team in the Rose Bowl in a traditional matchup of conferences.

The New York Times - Sports

There is a greater possibility that one, Eight Belles, will run; the other, Proud Spell, is preferred for the Oaks on the previous day.

The New York Times

"Still, forecasters almost certainly ought to have accounted for a greater possibility of an outcome like the one we saw," Silver said, calling it "a good lesson".

The Guardian

Further, the maximum amplitude generated in the anisotropic coatings is greater than that for isotropic coatings, thus providing for a greater possibility of modification of the turbulence.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a greater possibility", ensure the context clearly defines what the possibility is greater than. Comparing it to a specific alternative enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a greater possibility" without specifying the point of comparison. For example, instead of saying "There is a greater possibility of success", specify "There is a greater possibility of success with this new strategy than with the old one".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater possibility" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes an increased likelihood or potential for something to occur. It typically requires a comparative context to be fully meaningful.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a greater possibility" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase indicating an increased likelihood or potential. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's best employed in contexts where a comparison is clear, offering a valuable tool for expressing nuanced probabilities. Its prevalence in "News & Media" and "Science" underscores its suitability for formal communication. When writing, ensure you clarify what the possibility is greater than to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "a higher likelihood" or "an increased chance" to refine your message. The Ludwig examples provide numerous real-world applications to guide your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a higher likelihood

Focuses specifically on the increased probability of something occurring.

an increased chance

Emphasizes the improved odds or opportunity for something to happen.

an elevated likelihood

Similar to "a higher likelihood" but suggests a more significant increase in probability.

a stronger probability

Highlights a more robust likelihood, suggesting a more certain outcome.

a heightened potential

Shifts the focus to the increased capacity or ability for something to develop or emerge.

a bigger opportunity

Suggests an expansion of available opportunities or favorable circumstances.

a larger prospect

Implies a more extensive or promising outlook for future events.

an upswing in probability

Emphasizes the increasing trend or upward movement in the likelihood of an event.

a more realistic expectation

Indicates a shift towards a more achievable or grounded outcome.

a foreseeable eventuality

Presents the outcome as something that can be anticipated or predicted with some confidence.

FAQs

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

Use "a greater possibility" to indicate an increased likelihood of something occurring. For example: "With the new data, there's "a greater possibility" of finding a cure."

What are some alternatives to "a greater possibility"?

You can use alternatives such as "a higher likelihood", "an increased chance", or "a stronger probability" to convey a similar meaning.

Which is more appropriate: "a greater possibility" or "a high possibility"?

"A greater possibility" is typically used to compare likelihoods, while "a high possibility" simply indicates a significant chance. The choice depends on whether you're making a comparison or stating an absolute assessment.

In what contexts is "a greater possibility" most commonly used?

"A greater possibility" is commonly used in news, scientific reports, and formal writing to express an increased likelihood or potential for an event or outcome.