as a possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"as a possibility" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is a potential choice or course of action. For example: "We should consider relocating to a new city, as a possibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

He mentioned Planet 4 as a possibility.

The New Yorker

"We understood that as a possibility".

The New York Times - Tech

We saw it as a possibility".

The New York Times

"Face it as a possibility.

The Guardian

Layoff looms as a possibility".

The New York Times

He has suggested this as a possibility.

The New York Times

I considered that as a possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

Council members held it out yesterday as a possibility.

The New York Times

It made me see film as a possibility for myself.

The Guardian - Film

The Oakland Athletics have been mentioned as a possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

Overcome with boredom, he entertains suicide as a possibility.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a possibility" to introduce options or suggestions that are not definite or guaranteed. It's useful in scenarios where you want to present something as one of several potential outcomes or courses of action.

Common error

While "as a possibility" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language that clearly conveys the degree of likelihood or feasibility, such as "as a likely outcome" or "as a potentially viable solution".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a possibility" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, introducing an element of contingency or potential. It's commonly used to present something as one of several options or outcomes. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a possibility" is a versatile phrase used to introduce potential options or outcomes. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, especially in news and media. When using this phrase, remember to present it as one of several potential scenarios. For formal writing, consider more precise alternatives like "as a likely outcome" if the situation warrants. Avoid overusing "as a possibility" in highly formal or academic writing to maintain clarity and precision. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use the phrase "as a possibility" to communicate potential options clearly and professionally.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a potential option

Emphasizes the optional and potential nature, adding clarity by specifying "option".

as a prospective choice

Highlights the forward-looking aspect and the act of choosing.

as a conceivable alternative

Stresses that the option is imaginable or believable.

as a viable solution

Focuses on the practical and workable aspect of the suggestion.

as a hypothetical case

Presents the matter as conditional or speculative.

as a theoretical prospect

Highlights that the chance is based on theory rather than immediate fact.

as a contingency plan

Specifies the option is a backup strategy.

as something to consider

Suggests the matter is worthy of thought or deliberation.

as a future course

Emphasizes the future orientation and direction of the action.

as one potential avenue

Points out that it is only one possible route or direction.

FAQs

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

You can use "as a possibility" to introduce an option or suggestion. For example, "We are considering relocation "as a possibility" for expanding our business".

What are some alternatives to using "as a possibility"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "as a potential option", "as a viable solution", or "as a contingency plan".

Is it correct to say "as a possibility" in formal writing?

Yes, "as a possibility" is generally correct. However, for highly formal writing, consider using more precise phrases that specifically indicate the likelihood, like "as a likely outcome" or "as a feasible option".

What's the difference between "as a possibility" and "as a probability"?

"As a possibility" indicates something that could happen, while "as a probability" (/s/as+a+probability) suggests something that is likely to happen based on available evidence or data. "As a probability" implies a higher degree of likelihood than "as a possibility".