a possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"a possibility" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that may or may not be true or possible. For example, "The new trend could be a possibility in the near future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

a possibility.

Harvard University

That's not a possibility.

The New Yorker

"That is a possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

Always a possibility.

The New York Times

Surgery remains a possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

That remains a possibility.

The Economist

Was that a possibility?

The New York Times

It is a possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

Surgery is a possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

Is infinite a possibility?

The New Yorker

That's a possibility.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a possibility" to introduce options or outcomes that are not certain but should be considered. For example: "Investing in renewable energy is "a possibility" for a sustainable future."

Common error

Avoid using "a possibility" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "option", "prospect", or "chance" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possibility" functions as a noun phrase. It usually acts as a subject complement or object complement, indicating a potential state or outcome. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a possibility" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate something that might occur or be true. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from formal writing to casual conversation. While versatile, be mindful of overuse and consider synonyms to maintain clarity and engagement. Its frequency across News & Media, Academia, and Formal & Business settings underscores its wide applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential outcome

Replaces "possibility" with a more formal term, emphasizing the result or consequence aspect.

a plausible scenario

Suggests that the possibility is reasonable and believable.

a feasible option

Highlights the practical aspect, suggesting the possibility can be realistically achieved.

a likely prospect

Indicates a higher degree of probability compared to "possibility".

a conceivable event

Emphasizes the ability to imagine or conceive of the possibility.

a credible chance

Focuses on the believability and validity of the possibility.

within the realm of possibility

Expands the phrase to emphasize the scope of what is possible.

a distinct likelihood

Suggests a noticeable and clear chance of something happening.

a viable alternative

Focuses on the element of choice and suggests a workable solution.

something that could happen

Simplifies the phrase to its most basic meaning.

FAQs

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

You can use "a possibility" to suggest that something might happen or be true. For example, "Further delays are "a possibility" if funding isn't secured."

What are some alternatives to "a possibility"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a chance", "a prospect", or "an option" instead of "a possibility".

Is it more formal to say "a possibility" or "a chance"?

"A possibility" and "a chance" are often interchangeable. "A possibility" might be perceived as slightly more formal, but the difference is minimal.

When should I avoid using "a possibility"?

Avoid using "a possibility" when the outcome is nearly certain. In such cases, use stronger terms like "certainty" or "likelihood".