a postponement is possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a postponement is possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the potential for delaying an event or decision. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, a postponement is possible, and we will keep everyone updated on any changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Torre said he gave La Russa and Texas Manager Ron Washington a heads up on Tuesday that a postponement was possible, but he did not talk to them Wednesday until a decision was made.

The New York Times

Mary, however, decided that no further postponement was possible.

Wikipedia

Contrary to some reports that even Mr. Abbas wanted the elections delayed, she said a postponement was neither possible nor desirable.

The New York Times

Not that such a postponement is likely to mollify the protesters outside the palace tonight.

The Guardian

A postponement is generally thought to be to the government's advantage.

Los Angeles Times

Mr Vaca Díez's presidency would also mean the postponement of Santa Cruz's divisive referendum.It is possible, but not yet likely, that the more moderate among the social movements will strike a deal.

The Economist

It is possible he celebrated the postponement more than his victory the next day, because the former largely made the latter possible.

The New York Times - Sports

Her request for an indefinite postponement is now unlikely to be granted.

The Economist

The possible date postponement is included in a draft report that has been circulated among government and commission officials in recent days, and is expected to be among the topics discussed during a Wednesday hearing focusing on the origins and execution of the Sept. 11 plot.

The Washington Post

"The postponement is a bit disappointing, to be honest," Ms. Diron said.

The New York Times

Even so, another Schengen membership postponement is a setback for Romania.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a postponement is possible", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being postponed and why there might be a delay. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a postponement is possible" when a postponement is already highly likely or definite. Instead, use phrases like "a postponement is probable" or "a postponement is expected" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a postponement is possible" functions as a statement expressing the potential for a delay or rescheduling. According to Ludwig, it conveys that an event or action may be moved to a later date. It doesn't guarantee a postponement but suggests it as a viable option.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a postponement is possible" is a grammatically correct phrase used to convey that an event or decision might be delayed. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. The phrase is most frequently found in news, science, and business contexts with a neutral tone. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly states what is being postponed and avoid overstating the certainty of the delay. Alternatives include "a delay might occur" and "rescheduling is feasible". Remember, the phrase serves to manage expectations and prepare individuals for potential changes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A delay might occur

Replaces "postponement" with "delay" and "is possible" with "might occur", indicating a chance of something being delayed.

Rescheduling is feasible

Uses "rescheduling" to mean postponement and "feasible" to express possibility.

A deferral could happen

Replaces "postponement" with "deferral" and "is possible" with "could happen", indicating a chance of deferring something.

It is conceivable that it will be delayed

Expresses the possibility of a delay using a more formal and complex sentence structure.

The event might be put off

Uses "put off" as a phrasal verb to mean postpone and "might" to indicate possibility.

There's a chance of adjournment

Replaces "postponement" with "adjournment", indicating a temporary suspension, and expresses possibility using "there's a chance".

The schedule could be altered

Focuses on the alteration of the schedule instead of a direct postponement.

A rescheduling may transpire

Expresses the idea of rescheduling with a more formal tone using "transpire".

A shift in timing is not out of the question

Indirectly suggests a postponement by focusing on shifting the timing, implying it's still an option.

The date is subject to change

Indicates the possibility of postponement by stating that the date is not fixed and can be changed.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a postponement is possible" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "a deferral may occur", "rescheduling is feasible", or "a delay might be necessary". These options offer a more professional and polished sound while conveying the same meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a postponement is possible"?

Yes, "a postponement is possible" is grammatically correct. The structure follows standard English rules, where "postponement" is a noun, "is" is a linking verb, and "possible" is an adjective describing the noun.

What does "a postponement is possible" mean?

The phrase "a postponement is possible" indicates that there is a chance or likelihood that something will be delayed or rescheduled to a later time. It suggests uncertainty but acknowledges the potential for delay.

What are some alternatives to "a postponement is possible" in informal contexts?

In informal settings, you could say "it might get pushed back", "we might have to delay it", or "it could be rescheduled". Another option is "a delay might occur", which still maintains a degree of formality.