a realistic possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a realistic possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that could feasibly happen or be true, often in contexts involving planning, forecasting, or evaluating options. Example: "Given the current market trends, a realistic possibility is that we will see an increase in sales next quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I consider that a realistic possibility.

The New York Times

Is that a realistic possibility?

The New York Times

But is it a realistic possibility?

The New Yorker

Unfortunately, that is not a realistic possibility.

The New York Times

This is not scaremongering but a realistic possibility.

The Guardian - Opinion

I think Obama is a realistic possibility, a la Taft.

The New Yorker

A No. 5 seed seems like a realistic possibility for Jay Wright's bunch.

The Washington Post

It is a realistic possibility and it is a practical possibility.

The Guardian

This is a realistic possibility for brands with price elasticities of –1.0 and less.

Harvard Business Review

With relegation a realistic possibility for the visitors, this could be a thrilling game.

The Guardian - Sport

But is there a realistic possibility of the Mittster turning things around?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a realistic possibility" when evaluating potential outcomes or making predictions based on available data. This phrase adds a layer of credibility to your statements.

Common error

Avoid using "a realistic possibility" to describe scenarios that are merely desired outcomes without factual basis. Ensure there's tangible evidence supporting the plausibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a realistic possibility" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a situation or outcome that is not only possible but also grounded in reality or feasibility, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a realistic possibility" is a noun phrase indicating a feasible outcome supported by evidence or reasonable assumptions. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, especially in news, science, and formal communication. Related phrases include "a feasible scenario" and "a plausible outcome". When using this phrase, ensure that the possibility is grounded in reality and not merely wishful thinking. Considering its prevalent use in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, incorporating "a realistic possibility" into your writing can effectively convey credibility and well-reasoned expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a feasible scenario

Replaces "possibility" with "scenario", focusing on the unfolding of events.

a plausible outcome

Substitutes "possibility" with "outcome", highlighting the result or consequence.

a viable option

Replaces "possibility" with "option", emphasizing choice and practicality.

a credible prospect

Substitutes "realistic" with "credible" and "possibility" with "prospect", focusing on believability and future outlook.

a conceivable eventuality

Replaces "realistic" with "conceivable" and "possibility" with "eventuality", suggesting something that can be imagined or foreseen.

a genuine likelihood

Emphasizes the authenticity and probability of the event occurring.

a pragmatic expectation

Focuses on practicality and reasonable anticipation.

a sound chance

Highlights the potential and reliability of the possibility.

a valid anticipation

Suggests a well-founded expectation based on available information.

an achievable goal

Replaces "possibility" with "goal", framing the concept as a target that can be reached.

FAQs

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

Use "a realistic possibility" to describe an outcome that is likely to happen given the current circumstances. For example, "Given the company's growth rate, expansion into new markets is "a realistic possibility"."

What are some alternatives to "a realistic possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "a feasible scenario", "a plausible outcome", or "a viable option" depending on the context.

Is "a realistic possibility" the same as "a real possibility"?

While similar, "a realistic possibility" implies that the possibility is based on facts and evidence, whereas "a real possibility" simply suggests that it could happen. "A realistic possibility" has more weight due to its grounding in reality.

When should I use "a realistic possibility" instead of "a hope"?

Use "a realistic possibility" when there's a reasonable basis to believe something can occur. Use "a hope" when the outcome is desired but lacks strong supporting evidence. "A realistic possibility" is about likelihood, whereas "a hope" is about desire.