admit the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"admit the possibility" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to acknowledge or accept that something is possible. Here is an example sentence: I cannot say for certain, but I am willing to admit the possibility that he may have been lying about his whereabouts.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

We provided all the meals during the whole study for one half of the participants in order to ensure the best possible compliance, yet we have to admit the possibility of a reduced energy intake with the B2 regimen, even though the energy intake reported by our participants was similar in both regimens.

Diabetologia

(I admit the possibility that similar events have been blocked out).

The New Yorker

But you never admit the possibility of marrying me," Angiolina says cheerfully at one point.

The Guardian - Books

He will not admit the possibility that she may not have survived the tsunami.

The Guardian

However, we should admit the possibility that doing politics differently might mean there is another way to assess Mr Corbyn.

Independent

She did not admit the possibility that her sources, among them Ahmad Chalabi, might have been not only wrong but also skilled at manipulating her.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

He has admitted the possibility of failing to qualify for Russia is a concern.

The Guardian - Sport

He surveyed this plan nervously, admitted the possibility of future adjustments.

The New Yorker

The report also admits the possibility of damage to the Tibetan railway.

The Economist

The government has at least edged closer to admitting the possibility that this crime took place, which is a start.

The Economist

Maybe the summer of 1899 was when she finally admitted the possibility that the things he said were really the things he believed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "admit the possibility" when you want to acknowledge a potential outcome or situation without necessarily endorsing or believing it. This phrase is useful for maintaining objectivity and open-mindedness.

Common error

While "admit the possibility" is appropriate in many contexts, overuse in formal writing can make your writing sound hesitant. In such cases, consider more direct alternatives like "recognize" or "acknowledge" to convey greater certainty and confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "admit the possibility" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to express the act of acknowledging or conceding that something is possible, even if not necessarily probable or desired. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "admit the possibility" is a versatile phrase used to acknowledge that something is possible, even if not probable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general discussions. Remember to use it when you want to convey objectivity and consider alternatives like "concede the potential" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concede the potential

Conceding suggests a reluctant acknowledgment, highlighting a slight difference in attitude compared to simply admitting.

acknowledge the chance

Using "acknowledge" emphasizes recognition, while "chance" focuses on the probabilistic aspect of the possibility.

recognize the prospect

"Recognize" implies awareness, and "prospect" suggests something anticipated or looked forward to, adding a nuance of expectation.

entertain the idea

"Entertain" suggests a brief consideration, implying a less firm acceptance than "admit".

allow for the option

"Allow for" indicates making provisions for something, while "option" highlights the availability of a choice.

consider the likelihood

"Consider" indicates thoughtful evaluation, and "likelihood" emphasizes the probability of something occurring.

accept the eventuality

"Accept" suggests a willingness to face something, and "eventuality" emphasizes the certainty of a future occurrence.

grant the assumption

"Grant" implies conceding something for the sake of argument, and "assumption" highlights something taken for granted without proof.

own the inference

"Own" indicates taking responsibility for, and "inference" points to a conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.

countenance the thought

"Countenance" suggests giving approval or support to something, implying a degree of acceptance.

FAQs

How can I use "admit the possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "admit the possibility" to acknowledge a potential outcome or situation. For example, "While I doubt it will happen, I must "admit the possibility" that he might be telling the truth."

What is the difference between "admit the possibility" and "consider the possibility"?

"Admit the possibility" suggests acknowledging something may be true or may happen, even if you are hesitant. "Consider the possibility" implies a more active and thoughtful evaluation of something's potential.

What are some alternatives to "admit the possibility"?

Alternatives to "admit the possibility" include "acknowledge the chance", "concede the potential", or "recognize the prospect", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "admit of the possibility" instead of "admit the possibility"?

While "admit of" is grammatically correct in some contexts, it is less common and more formal. "Admit the possibility" is generally preferred for its straightforwardness and wider applicability.