consider all possibilities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "consider all possibilities" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that someone should think about every potential option or outcome in a given situation. Example: "Before making a decision, it's important to consider all possibilities to ensure the best outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

You stimulated and stretched our own thinking to consider all possibilities.

The New York Times

"Four years from now," Mr. Adlerstein said, "we will consider all possibilities at the time we need to consolidate".

The New York Times

But in granting the easement, she said, the government had to consider all possibilities, even remote ones.

The New York Times

On Tuesday, responding to pressure from industry, the European Commission asked both countries to "consider all possibilities of flexibility" to allow more trucks to cross their borders.

The New York Times

Lieutenant Cosgrove would not confirm that investigators had received direct reports that the driver had fallen asleep, but said they would consider all possibilities.

The New York Times

However, as the optimal configuration may contain a combination of different modifications a systematic approach is necessary to consider all possibilities.

Applied Energy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"It will take some time to consider all the possibilities".

The Guardian - Sport

An academy spokeswoman, said, "We're confident the mask will be found, but we have to consider all the possibilities".

The New York Times - Arts

"It would be a shame to overlook an inhabited world because we did not consider all the possibilities". On Earth three billion years ago the atmosphere was virtually empty of oxygen, yet its oceans were teeming with microbial life.

Forbes

It's important to consider all the possibilities that are out there, as we must ensure that we're not fooling ourselves by drawing the type of conclusion we want to draw.

Forbes

"You'd want your own people with you and, if there are people already in place doing a good job, you have to sit down and consider all the possibilities.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "consider all possibilities", ensure you've actually broadened your perspective beyond the immediately obvious solutions. Challenge assumptions.

Common error

Avoid deciding on a course of action before you've genuinely explored the full range of options. Saying you'll "consider all possibilities" doesn't mean much if you've already made up your mind.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "consider all possibilities" functions as an imperative, urging someone to thoroughly explore and evaluate every potential option or outcome. Ludwig AI shows that it is used across varied source types.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "consider all possibilities" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that encourages a thorough and open-minded approach to decision-making and problem-solving. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability across various contexts, from News & Media to scientific research. While alternatives such as "explore all avenues" or "evaluate all scenarios" exist, the core message remains the same: ensure comprehensive thinking by actively seeking out all potential outcomes and options before settling on a course of action. Remember to challenge your assumptions and avoid premature conclusions for the best result.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consider all options

Focuses on the choices available.

explore all avenues

Emphasizes a thorough search of different methods.

evaluate all scenarios

Highlights the need to assess potential outcomes.

weigh all alternatives

Suggests carefully comparing different options.

examine all prospects

Focuses on potential future outcomes.

assess every contingency

Highlights the importance of assessing possible future events or circumstances.

leave no stone unturned

Suggests conducting a thorough and exhaustive search.

think outside the box

Encourages innovative and unconventional thinking.

cover all bases

Means to prepare for every eventuality to avoid failure.

look at every angle

Emphasizes a comprehensive approach.

FAQs

How can I use "consider all possibilities" in a sentence?

You can use "consider all possibilities" to emphasize the importance of exploring various options before making a decision. For example, "Before investing, make sure to consider all possibilities to minimize risks".

What is an alternative to "consider all possibilities"?

Alternatives include "explore all avenues", "evaluate all scenarios", or "weigh all alternatives". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "consider all possibilities"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey thoroughness and a commitment to exploring a wide range of options, especially in situations involving decision-making, problem-solving, or planning.

What does it mean to "think outside the box" when you "consider all possibilities"?

Thinking outside the box means not being limited by conventional ideas and considering unconventional or innovative solutions when you "consider all possibilities".