a theoretical possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a theoretical possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that could happen in theory, even if it may not be practical or likely in reality. Example: "While it may seem unlikely, a theoretical possibility exists for life on other planets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is something of a theoretical possibility, but is at least technically possible from the data collected.

The Guardian - Opinion

Zinc fingers may also make technically possible a morally fraught procedure that has been merely a theoretical possibility — the alteration of the human germ line, meaning the egg or sperm cells.

The New York Times

This is not just a theoretical possibility.

The New York Times

Modifying human heredity has always been a theoretical possibility.

MIT Technology Review

Most observers say a death sentence is very likely, though life imprisonment remains a theoretical possibility.

The Guardian

For some countries this is no longer merely a theoretical possibility.

The Guardian

Of course there was a "theoretical possibility" that such things could be going on, he added.

The New York Times

It was first raised as a theoretical possibility in the 1970s, Dr. Kramer said.

The New York Times

All Sept. 11 did was turn a theoretical possibility into a felt danger.

The New York Times - Magazine

Turnbull said on Monday minority government was a "theoretical possibility" but only ruled out formal "deals".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Werner thinks the star's helium atmosphere may have been blown away by a sudden thermonuclear ignition of carbon--a theoretical possibility for relatively massive stars.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a theoretical possibility", ensure the context clarifies whether the possibility is being presented for discussion, planning, or risk assessment. Clearly state if there is evidence to support the possibility or if it is purely speculative.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a theoretical possibility" as a likely outcome. Use qualifiers like "remote", "slim", or "unlikely" if the possibility is not well-supported by evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a theoretical possibility" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a concept or scenario that is conceivable or imaginable but not necessarily likely or practical. Ludwig AI's analysis, supported by numerous examples, confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a theoretical possibility" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that introduces scenarios or concepts that are conceivable but not necessarily probable. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves to explore potential outcomes, consider risks, or acknowledge alternatives. While versatile, clarity is key: the phrase shouldn't be overstated as a likely outcome unless adequately supported by evidence. Its usage spans various contexts, with prevalence in science, news, and academia, reflecting its role in formal and nuanced discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hypothetical possibility

Replaces "theoretical" with "hypothetical", emphasizing the speculative nature of the possibility.

a notional possibility

Emphasizes the conceptual or abstract nature of the possibility.

a conceivable prospect

Uses "conceivable" and "prospect" to suggest something imaginable or likely to happen.

a speculative scenario

Highlights that the possibility is based on speculation or conjecture.

a potential scenario

Emphasizes the possibility as a future event that could unfold.

a remote chance

Indicates a low probability of occurrence, focusing on the unlikelihood.

a slim likelihood

Similar to "remote chance", highlighting the small probability.

a plausible eventuality

Suggests the possibility is believable and could potentially occur.

a contingent outcome

Implies the possibility depends on certain conditions being met.

a formal possibility

Suggests the possibility exists within a structured framework or model.

FAQs

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

You can use "a theoretical possibility" to introduce an idea that is possible in theory but may not be likely in practice. For example, "There is "a theoretical possibility" that the company could go bankrupt, but it's unlikely given its current financial health".

What can I say instead of "a theoretical possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "a hypothetical possibility", "a remote chance", or "a potential scenario" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a theoretical probability" instead of "a theoretical possibility"?

While "probability" and "possibility" are related, "probability" refers to the likelihood of something occurring, whereas "possibility" simply refers to whether it could occur. Therefore, it's more accurate to use "a theoretical possibility" when discussing a potential occurrence without assigning a specific likelihood.

What is the difference between "a theoretical possibility" and "a practical possibility"?

"A theoretical possibility" exists in theory but may not be feasible in reality due to constraints or limitations. "A practical possibility", on the other hand, is not only conceivable but also realistically achievable given current conditions and resources.