a reasonable possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or plausibility of a certain event or outcome occurring. Example: "Given the current evidence, there is a reasonable possibility that the project will be completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The inference of "subjective foresight cannot be drawn if there is a reasonable possibility that the accused did not foresee, even if he ought reasonably to have done so and even if he probably did so".

The Guardian

If prices rise above the rate of inflation, a reasonable possibility given how depressed they are now, your return will be still higher, possibly significantly so.

Forbes

"We think there's a reasonable possibility," he said.

The New York Times

That seems like a reasonable possibility in the future.

The New York Times

And I think less than 10 on an equity fund is a reasonable possibility.

The New York Times

There's a "reasonable possibility that you'd see significant changes," he says.

MIT Technology Review

"I see in this bill a reasonable possibility that China will change its culture toward observing the rule of law".

The New York Times

"There's a reasonable possibility that monetary policy is going to become more of a focus than fiscal policy".

The Guardian - Business

Crocker pointed out there is a "reasonable possibility" that people can get burnt if they are not protected.

The Guardian

He also ruled that there was a "reasonable possibility" that the information could have changed the outcome of the trial.

The New York Times

We don't know yet know if the lack of hormones and antibiotics in organic animal products makes them healthier than conventional animal products, but it's a reasonable possibility.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a reasonable possibility" when you want to convey that an outcome is not certain, but there's enough evidence or reason to believe it could happen. This implies a moderate level of likelihood without overstating the case.

Common error

Avoid using "a reasonable possibility" when you actually mean something is highly probable or almost certain. Overusing it weakens the impact, and you should opt for stronger terms like "highly likely" or "almost certain" in those scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable possibility" functions as a noun phrase that qualifies a potential outcome or event. It suggests that the occurrence is not definite but is plausible and supported by some degree of evidence or logic. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable possibility" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a plausible but not guaranteed outcome. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and commonly employed across various domains, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Academia. When writing, use this phrase to suggest a moderate level of likelihood without overstating certainty. For similar expressions, consider alternatives like "a realistic possibility" or "a plausible possibility". Be mindful of not overusing the phrase when a stronger expression is more fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a realistic possibility

Emphasizes the practicality and feasibility of the event.

a plausible possibility

Highlights the believability and credibility of the event.

a viable possibility

Suggests the event is capable of succeeding or working effectively.

a likely possibility

Directly indicates a high probability of the event occurring.

a distinct possibility

Implies the event is noticeably present as a potential outcome.

a conceivable possibility

Focuses on the capacity of the event to be imagined or understood.

a credible possibility

Stresses the trustworthiness and reliability of the event's potential.

a tenable possibility

Suggests the event is defensible or justifiable.

a potential prospect

Shifts focus to the future outlook and potential for development.

a good chance

Uses simpler language to indicate a favorable likelihood.

FAQs

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

Use "a reasonable possibility" to indicate that something could happen, even if it's not guaranteed. For instance, "There's a reasonable possibility that the company will expand next year."

What phrases are similar to "a reasonable possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "a realistic possibility", "a plausible possibility", or "a likely possibility" depending on the context.

Is "a reasonable possibility" formal or informal?

"A reasonable possibility" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality makes it versatile for various writing styles.

What's the difference between "a reasonable possibility" and "a certainty"?

"A reasonable possibility" suggests an outcome that is likely, but not guaranteed, while "a certainty" implies the outcome is sure to happen. If you're sure of the outcome, use "a certainty"; if not, use "a reasonable possibility".