exclude the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'exclude the possibility' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to express that one thing or situation is impossible or cannot happen. For example, "We must exclude the possibility of a fatal outcome in this case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We can exclude the possibility that this was an accident.

The Guardian

"Hence, I don't exclude the possibility that Foggia plays abroad.

Independent

But it's very difficult to exclude the possibility that even those have been aided by people.

Yale University

However, a normal sonogram did not exclude the possibility of rejection.

Stanford University

The absence of echoencephalographic abnormalities did not exclude the possibility of impaired development in many infants.

Stanford University

"We don't exclude the possibility that the rebels knew about the movement of this convoy".

The New York Times

The IAEA cannot exclude the possibility that the Iranian programme has military aspects.

The Guardian - Opinion

Neither side wants conflict, but, as of today, neither can exclude the possibility.

The New Yorker

But he cannot exclude the possibility of there being a no deal Brexit.

The Guardian

Of course, that doesn't exclude the possibility that there may have been a supernova involved somewhere.

MIT Technology Review

The government later said it could not exclude the possibility that state agents were involved.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exclude the possibility", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being deemed impossible and why, as this phrase often sets a definitive boundary in reasoning or planning.

Common error

Avoid using "exclude the possibility" when there's even a slight chance of the event occurring. Instead, use phrases like "reduce the likelihood" or "minimize the risk" to reflect a more nuanced assessment of uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exclude the possibility" functions as a modal expression, indicating that a particular outcome or event is considered impossible or has been definitively ruled out. As supported by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently employed across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exclude the possibility" is a versatile phrase used to express that a specific outcome is deemed impossible, appearing frequently across diverse contexts such as science, news, and academia. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and conveys a clear sense of certainty. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to avoid overstating certainty in situations with even a slight degree of doubt. Alternatives like "rule out the chance" or "eliminate the potential" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. By understanding its proper usage and potential pitfalls, you can effectively communicate certainty and finality in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rule out the chance

This alternative suggests a more definitive elimination of a specific chance or likelihood.

preclude the option

This option emphasizes preventing a particular option from being considered or available.

eliminate the potential

This phrase focuses on removing the inherent potential for something to occur.

discount the likelihood

This alternative suggests reducing the perceived probability of an event.

dismiss the prospect

This implies rejecting a future possibility or outlook as unlikely or irrelevant.

negate the probability

This option emphasizes the act of nullifying the mathematical probability of something occurring.

invalidate the hope

This phrase focuses on disproving the possibility of a positive outcome or expectation.

nullify the expectation

This option centers on canceling or voiding an anticipation or prediction.

void the presumption

This means to render a previously assumed condition or belief as invalid or untrue.

obviate the concern

This suggests removing the necessity or relevance of a worry or apprehension.

FAQs

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

You can use "exclude the possibility" to indicate that a particular outcome is impossible or has been definitively prevented. For example, "Rigorous testing helps "eliminate the risk" of errors" or "New evidence "discounts the likelihood" of foul play".

What are some alternatives to "exclude the possibility"?

Alternatives include phrases like "rule out the chance", "preclude the option", or "eliminate the potential", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "exclude the possibility" or "eliminate the possibility"?

Both "exclude the possibility" and "eliminate the possibility" are grammatically correct, but their suitability depends on context. "Exclude" implies a logical or reasoned removal, while "eliminate" suggests a complete removal of any chance. Choose the term that best fits the situation.

What's the difference between "exclude the possibility" and "reduce the possibility"?

"Exclude the possibility" means to make something impossible, while "reduce the possibility" means to decrease the likelihood of something happening, but not completely eliminate it. The choice depends on the degree of certainty you wish to express.