definite possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definite possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is certain to happen or is highly likely to occur. Example: "There is a definite possibility that the event will be rescheduled due to the weather conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"An operation is a definite possibility but we are hoping it definitely won't be before the World Cup.

BBC

Game 3 is a definite possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm expecting him to play, but that's a definite possibility".

The New York Times

At this stage, that is a definite possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

And against Oregon State's aggressive defense, that's a definite possibility.

The New York Times

Automobile Magazine reports that it's a definite possibility.

The New York Times

It's a definite possibility," said Williams on the 2014 Masters being his last.

The Guardian - Sport

"You'd need an M.R.I. to find out, but I would say it's a definite possibility".

The New York Times - Sports

"So I think playing the two of them together is a definite possibility".

The New York Times - Sports

Assessing plans, Candy added: "It [Breeders' Cup] is a definite possibility.

The Guardian - Sport

He said it was a definite possibility that this could occur this season.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "definite possibility", ensure that the context supports a degree of certainty or high likelihood. Avoid using it for remote or unlikely scenarios.

Common error

Avoid using "definite possibility" when the situation is merely speculative or based on weak evidence. Using phrases like "potential option" or "possible scenario" might be more appropriate in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definite possibility" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object, describing something that is highly likely or certain to occur. As Ludwig AI points out, its usage aligns with standard grammatical rules and is prevalent in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

19%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definite possibility" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that conveys a strong likelihood of an event or outcome. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard English grammar rules. It frequently appears in News & Media, Science and Wiki contexts. While there are alternative expressions such as "distinct likelihood" or "strong probability", "definite possibility" remains a versatile and clear choice for expressing a high degree of certainty. When using this phrase, it is important to ensure the context genuinely supports a high degree of probability to avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct likelihood

Replaces "possibility" with "likelihood" and "definite" with "distinct", emphasizing a strong chance of occurrence.

strong probability

Substitutes "possibility" with "probability", highlighting a high degree of certainty.

real prospect

Uses "prospect" instead of "possibility", suggesting a concrete anticipation of something happening.

clear potential

Emphasizes the capacity for something to develop or happen, using "potential" in place of "possibility".

serious chance

Indicates a significant likelihood, with "chance" replacing "possibility".

credible scenario

Suggests a believable or plausible situation that could unfold.

viable option

Indicates that something is practical and workable, making it a feasible "possibility".

conceivable outcome

Highlights that something is imaginable and could happen, using "outcome" instead of "possibility".

genuine expectation

Conveys a sincere anticipation, replacing "possibility" with a stronger term.

realistic hope

Suggests that something is reasonably likely to occur, framing it as something to "hope" for.

FAQs

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

You can use "definite possibility" to describe something that is very likely to happen. For example, "There is a "definite possibility" that the project will be completed ahead of schedule".

What are some alternatives to "definite possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "distinct likelihood", "strong probability", or "real prospect" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very definite possibility"?

Yes, adding "very" before "definite" is generally redundant because "definite" already implies a high degree of certainty. It's better to stick with "definite possibility".

What is the difference between "definite possibility" and "remote possibility"?

"Definite possibility" suggests a strong chance of something occurring, while "remote possibility" indicates that something is unlikely but still conceivable. The former implies a higher probability than the latter.