a substantial possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or chance of something occurring, particularly in formal or analytical contexts. Example: "There is a substantial possibility that the project will be completed ahead of schedule if we maintain our current pace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Of course, there's also a substantial possibility that the economy will look bleaker in the months ahead.

The New York Times

There is therefore a substantial possibility that A.I.G. will be unable to meet its obligations and be forced into liquidation.

The New York Times

The justices found there was "a substantial possibility that a special count would distort the voters' intentions" and said a recount would not resolve the issue fairly.

The Guardian

Based on the information gathered to date, we believe there is a substantial possibility that some of AT&T's practices may violate the General Conduct Rule.

TechCrunch

I hesitate to hope for this, but I think there is a substantial possibility that a lot of our sociopolitical problems will diminish, and I point to the prevalence of acceptance of evolution in other developed countries as evidence (Miller et al., 2006).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

There is, on the other hand, a substantial possibility for harm.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Outfield seats, typically cheaper than seats closer to the plate, are suddenly prime real estate because of the substantial possibility of catching a ball or two.

The New York Times - Sports

Justice O'Connor also fired a warning shot at what she said was the "substantial" possibility that the administration would hold Mr. Hamdi for the rest of his life.

The New York Times

In July, Britain lowered its assessment of the threat posed by international terrorism from severe to substantial, meaning there was a "strong possibility" of an attack.

The New York Times

The authors conclude that their initiative demonstrates substantial possibilities for general practice in the assessment and management of common mental disorders of children and adolescents.

BMC Family Practice

While reconstructing the history of viral emergence is a substantial challenge, one possibility is that transmission of SIV associated with hunting and butchering is an ongoing process and that contemporary hunters may yet be found with SIV infection.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial possibility", ensure the context clearly outlines what the possibility entails to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial possibility" when the likelihood is merely speculative or based on weak evidence. Ensure the assessment is grounded in credible data or informed reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial possibility" functions as a noun phrase that expresses the presence of a significant likelihood or chance. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. It is used to indicate that something is more than just remotely possible; it has a real chance of occurring.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial possibility" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies a significant likelihood or chance of something occurring. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and appropriateness for formal and analytical contexts. While “a substantial possibility” can be seen across various domains, the phrase appears most frequently in news and media and scientific publications. The phrase effectively conveys a reasoned assessment and is best used when the likelihood is supported by credible evidence. When using "a substantial possibility", ensure clarity and avoid overstating the likelihood without proper justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant likelihood

Replaces "possibility" with "likelihood" and "substantial" with "significant", emphasizing the probability aspect.

a considerable chance

Substitutes "substantial" with "considerable" and "possibility" with "chance", indicating a noteworthy probability.

a notable prospect

Replaces "possibility" with "prospect" and "substantial" with "notable", focusing on the potential outcome.

a marked likelihood

Uses "marked" instead of "substantial" and "likelihood" for "possibility", highlighting the noticeable probability.

a strong probability

Emphasizes the strength of the probability by using "strong" instead of "substantial".

a high probability

Focuses on the elevated level of probability.

a good chance

More informal, implying a reasonable likelihood.

a real prospect

Highlights the genuine nature of the potential.

a distinct possibility

Indicates a clear and definite potential.

a weighty chance

Emphasizes the importance and impact of the chance.

FAQs

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

Use "a substantial possibility" to indicate a significant chance or likelihood of something occurring. For example, "There is "a substantial possibility" that the company will expand next year."

What are some alternatives to "a substantial possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant likelihood", "a considerable chance", or "a strong probability" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a substantial possibility" in formal writing?

Yes, "a substantial possibility" is suitable for formal writing as it conveys a clear and reasonably objective assessment of likelihood.

What's the difference between ""a substantial possibility"" and "a slight possibility"?

"A substantial possibility" indicates a notable chance, while "a slight possibility" suggests a very low chance or remote likelihood.