at any prospect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at any prospect" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used in contexts where one is discussing potential outcomes or possibilities, but it would need to be part of a more complete and clear expression. Example: "At any prospect of failure, we must be prepared to adapt our strategy."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We never see her again, but her calibration rings through the movie, most enduringly — and, it must be said, unendurably — in the person of Mary, who clearly despises herself, and who lunges at any prospect of companionship, however faint.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Christian Benteke is willing to stay and fight for his place at Liverpool, with any prospect of the striker leaving currently impossible due to the club pricing him out of the market.

The Guardian - Sport

I didn't see any prospect at all.

The Guardian - Sport

"Which means that I can't, as things stand at the moment, see any prospect of the review succeeding".

The Guardian

Sixty years on, this line of research continues, at great expense, without any prospect of commercial plausibility.Make mine a PWRThe navy did not need exciting ideas; it needed submarine power plants that used available technologies.

The Economist

Many seem resigned to another "flat cash" settlement for research on 25 November, but if there's any prospect at all of a modest uplift in budgets, then this should be the rationale: using any extra resource to support meaningful and lasting improvements in the way the UK research system operates.

The Guardian

Sinfield's second goal made it 20-6 at half-time and any prospect of a comeback by the French was ended when Briscoe grabbed his second try nine minutes into the second half.

BBC

Cooler, as in designing Antarctic bases capable of withstanding temperatures of minus 55C and winds that surge to 100mph, and keeping researchers comfortable for the nine months of the year that they are marooned at their research bases without any prospect of flying or shipping out.

Independent

Sullivan was educated at home, and any prospects for military service were dashed when his foot was crushed in a childhood accident.

Wikipedia

Europe does not have to impose tariffs immediately indeed, European businesses would be horrified at the prospect of any such thing but it will be free to do so at any time and in any amount up to the limit permitted after June 17th.

The Economist

The crime world is all aflutter at the prospect, in any event.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more common and direct alternatives like "given any possibility" or "in light of any potential" for clearer communication.

Common error

Avoid using "at any prospect" in formal writing or situations where clarity is crucial. It may sound unnatural and detract from your message. Replace with more typical expressions like "in anticipation of" or "given the chance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at any prospect" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating a condition or circumstance under which an action or state might occur. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, directness and clarity are important, so the contexts should be carefully considered.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at any prospect" functions as a prepositional phrase to introduce a condition or possibility. However, as Ludwig AI points out, it is not a commonly used expression in contemporary English. While grammatically correct, alternative phrases such as "given any possibility" or "in light of any potential" are often clearer and more natural. Usage is primarily found in news and media sources, suggesting a somewhat formal but not overly technical register. Therefore, while "at any prospect" isn't incorrect, consider whether a more common alternative would better serve your writing goals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with any expectation

Replaces "prospect" with "expectation", focusing on anticipation rather than potential.

in light of any potential

Highlights the consideration of future possibilities.

given any possibility

Emphasizes the presence of a chance or likelihood.

in view of any likelihood

Similar to 'given any possibility' but with a slightly more formal tone.

considering any chance

Focuses on evaluating the likelihood of something happening.

with the hope of any outcome

Shifts the focus to a desired result, regardless of its likelihood.

if there's any hope

Focuses specifically on the presence of hope, implying a more positive outlook.

regarding any opportunity

Highlights the consideration of future possibilities.

in anticipation of any event

Focuses on preparing for something that might occur.

on the off chance

Indicates a low probability but a willingness to act anyway.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "at any prospect" for better clarity?

Consider using alternatives like "given any possibility", "in light of any potential", or "with any expectation". These options often provide greater clarity and flow more naturally in contemporary English.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "at any prospect"?

While grammatically correct, "at any prospect" is not frequently used. It might be suitable in specific literary contexts or when aiming for a slightly archaic tone, but it's generally better to opt for more common alternatives in most situations.

Which phrases are similar in meaning to "at any prospect"?

Similar phrases include "given any chance", "regarding any opportunity", or "in anticipation of "any event"". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "at any prospect" considered formal or informal language?

The phrase leans towards being slightly formal due to its somewhat uncommon usage. However, more direct alternatives are generally preferred for both formal and informal contexts to ensure clarity.