entertain the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"entertain the possibility" is a correctly formed phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express openness to an idea or concept, or to consider its merits or implications. For example: "We must entertain the possibility that the project won't succeed in its current form."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it's not too soon to entertain the possibility.

The Washington Post

"I also want to entertain the possibility that N.Y.U.

The New Yorker

I can entertain the possibility that Christianity is true.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I also entertain the possibility that I'm wrong.

The New York Times - Magazine

We always entertain the possibility we could lose a state.

The New York Times

It's time to entertain the possibility that President Obama is a right-wing extremist.

The New York Times

Merely to entertain the possibility seems a fitting tribute to the composer's tenacious spirit.

The New Yorker

This being a blog, though, let's entertain the possibility that this is something other than coincidence.

The Economist

He does not entertain the possibility that James felt no need to be outed.

The New Yorker

Imagine how it feels to entertain the possibility of attending your child's funeral.

The Guardian - Opinion

We all wish to live forever, or would at least be pleased to entertain the possibility.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "entertain the possibility" when you want to indicate an openness to considering something, even if you are not fully convinced of its likelihood or validity.

Common error

While "entertain the possibility" is widely acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Alternatives like "consider", "explore", or "acknowledge" can offer a more direct and concise tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entertain the possibility" functions as a verb phrase indicating a willingness to consider or explore a particular idea, scenario, or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase's proper grammatical structure, reinforcing its function in expressing openness to consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "entertain the possibility" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to express openness to considering an idea or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. It finds frequent application in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While ""consider the possibility"" serves as a strong synonym, nuances exist across related phrases like "explore the possibility" and "acknowledge the possibility". When writing, use it to introduce considerations without necessarily endorsing them, and be mindful of overusing it in highly formal settings, opting for direct alternatives when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Consider the possibility

Replaces "entertain" with the more direct verb "consider", emphasizing thoughtful examination.

Contemplate the possibility

Uses "contemplate" to suggest a more prolonged and thorough consideration.

Explore the possibility

Emphasizes the active investigation of the potential of something.

Accept the possibility

Focuses on acknowledging and being open to a certain outcome.

Acknowledge the possibility

Highlights recognizing the existence of a potential situation or idea.

Admit the possibility

Implies conceding that something might be true or feasible.

Envisage the possibility

Emphasizes imagining or visualizing a potential scenario.

Allow for the possibility

Suggests making provisions or plans that take a potential event into account.

Imagine the possibility

Focuses on creating a mental picture of a potential event or scenario.

Conceive of the possibility

Implies forming an idea or understanding of a potential event.

FAQs

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

You can use "entertain the possibility" to introduce an idea or scenario that you are willing to consider, even if it seems unlikely. For example, "We must "consider the possibility" that our initial assumptions were incorrect".

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

You can use alternatives like ""consider the possibility"", "explore the possibility", or "acknowledge the possibility" depending on the context.

Is "entertain the possibility" a formal or informal expression?

"Entertain the possibility" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though in very formal writing, alternatives like ""consider the possibility"" might be preferred.

What is the difference between "entertain the possibility" and "believe the possibility"?

"Entertain the possibility" suggests considering something without necessarily believing it, while "believe the possibility" implies a degree of conviction or acceptance.