assessing the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "assessing the possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when evaluating or considering the likelihood of a certain outcome or event. Example: "The team is currently assessing the possibility of expanding our services to new markets."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

These included the need for further studies on some of the prognostic factors, the need to explore the causal effect of other factors, and studies assessing the possibility of using prognostic factors in the prevention or treatment of whiplash whenever possible, as discussed below.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Assessing the possibility that Pakistan might implode, Huntsman said, "The turmoil in South Asia would be imponderable".

The New Yorker

As a result, she said some groups were assessing the possibility of supporting a lawsuit to challenge the license.

The New York Times - Science

The transportation authority said it was assessing the possibility of finishing the upgrades ahead of schedule.

The New York Times

Knowledge on the origin of this hypersaline groundwater is key in assessing the possibility of deep fresh groundwater pockets.

Journal of Hydrology

This non-uniformity leads to high local stresses that must be considered in assessing the possibility of shell buckling.

Thin-Walled Structures

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

The authors take up these difficulties, assessing the possibilities for environmental diplomacy going forward.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But the IPCC scientists do not assess the possibility of catastrophic releases this century.

The Guardian

To assess the possibility of laparoscopic management of cervical agenesis.

Fertility and Sterility

The A.A.A.I. report will try to assess the possibility of "the loss of human control of computer-based intelligences".

The New York Times - Science

Four years later Mr. Cohl returned to Cannes, this time to assess the possibility of a Toronto festival.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "assessing the possibility", clearly define what you are evaluating and the criteria you are using to make the assessment.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice constructions that obscure who is doing the assessing. Instead of "The possibility is being assessed", write "The team is assessing the possibility".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assessing the possibility" functions as a gerund phrase. It typically acts as a noun, describing the action of evaluating whether something is likely to occur or exist. This is confirmed by Ludwig AI, which validates its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "assessing the possibility" is a grammatically correct and commonly used gerund phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, indicating it's suitable across various contexts, particularly in science and news media. While versatile, its usage should be mindful of potential passive voice constructions. Alternatives include "evaluating the likelihood" or "examining the potential", depending on the nuance you aim to convey. Remember to clearly define the evaluation criteria for a more impactful use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evaluating the likelihood

Focuses more specifically on the probability of something happening.

determining the likelihood

Focuses on establishing the probability of something happening.

examining the potential

Highlights a detailed inspection of the inherent capacity or possibility.

considering the prospects

Emphasizes the future outlook and chances of success.

investigating the feasibility

Centers on whether something is practical and can be successfully carried out.

ascertaining the plausibility

Emphasizes confirming if something is believable or credible.

exploring the option

Indicates an initial look into something as a potential choice.

gauging the probability

Refers to measuring or estimating the likelihood of an event.

weighing the odds

Suggests a careful consideration of the chances of success versus failure.

analyzing the chances

Involves a systematic examination of the likelihood of a specific outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "assessing the possibility" to describe the act of evaluating whether something could happen or be true. For example, "The scientists are "assessing the possibility" of life on other planets".

What can I say instead of "assessing the possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "evaluating the likelihood", "examining the potential", or "considering the prospects depending on the context.

Is "assessing the possibility" formal or informal?

"Assessing the possibility" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, the specific wording around it might need to be adjusted based on the formality of the situation.

What's the difference between "assessing the probability" and "assessing the possibility"?

"Assessing the probability" implies a more quantitative evaluation, while "assessing the possibility" is a more general evaluation of whether something could happen.