fairly possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'fairly possible' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is within the realm of reason or probability, but not definite. For example, "Is it fairly possible for us to finish the project by the end of the week?".

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

According to these results, the GdNCT appears to be a fairly possible tumour therapy.

Applied Radiation and Isotopes

This interpretation is supported by the canon that a statute is to be construed where fairly possible so as to avoid substantial constitutional questions.

Cornell University

"A statute must be construed, if fairly possible, so as to avoid not only the conclusion that it is unconstitutional, but also grave doubts upon that score"...

Cornell University

This limitation to constructions that are "fairly possible," and "reasonable," see Yu Cong Eng v. Trinidad, supra, 271 U.S., at 518, 46 S.Ct., at 623, acts as a brake against wholesale judicial dismemberment of congressional enactments.

Cornell University

We are persuaded to this view for the reason that it supports the constitutionality of the act, and we are bound if fairly possible to construe the law so as to avoid the conclusion of unconstitutionality.

Cornell University

Although I agree that we should "first ascertain whether a construction of the statute is fairly possible by which the constitutional question may be avoided," Crowell v. Benson, 285 U.S. 22, 62, 52 S.Ct.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Thus, the Constitution itself commands judges to presume that government enactments are constitutional and even to endeavor to "save" the constitutionality of government enactments by adopting interpretations of those enactments that are "fairly possible --even if they are not the best interpossible --even

Huffington Post

We in the press must retain the right to publish the facts and, in return, we must do it as fairly as possible to avoid any possible prejudice.

The Guardian

The NDP should be addressed to solutions in which the outcomes of the design (costs and/or benefits) are distributed as fairly as possible among the potential users or class of users.

Case Studies on Transport Policy

We will make these cuts as fairly as possible.

The Guardian

Make sure the pain falls as fairly as possible on everyone.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing legal documents, use "fairly possible" to describe an interpretation of a statute that avoids constitutional issues.

Common error

Avoid using "fairly possible" when you intend to convey a high degree of certainty. Opt for terms like "likely" or "probable" in such cases. Using "fairly possible" when strong evidence exists may weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fairly possible" functions as an adverb-adjective combination modifying a situation or outcome. It suggests that something is more than just conceivable but less than probable. According to Ludwig, the phrase is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fairly possible" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe an event or a situation that has some probability of occurring but is not very likely. Ludwig AI confirms that "fairly possible" is correct and can be used in written English.

This phrase is suitable for various contexts, as demonstrated by the examples found in academia, science, and news media, even if more frequent in the former. When using "fairly possible", ensure that you're not overstating the likelihood of an event; alternatives like "reasonably possible" or "somewhat likely" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonably possible

Indicates a moderate degree of likelihood or feasibility.

quite possible

Suggests a slightly higher degree of likelihood than "fairly possible".

somewhat likely

Uses 'likely' explicitly, focusing on the probability aspect.

conceivably

Emphasizes the possibility of something being imagined or conceived.

potentially

Highlights the inherent capacity for something to occur or become real.

within the realm of possibility

A more formal expression indicating that something is not impossible.

plausibly

Indicates that something is believable or credible as a possibility.

not entirely out of the question

A more emphatic way of stating that something is possible, though perhaps unlikely.

feasibly

Focuses on the practicality and achievability of something.

achievable to some extent

Highlights that it could be reached, not in its totality.

FAQs

How can I use "fairly possible" in a sentence?

"Fairly possible" is used to describe something that is within the bounds of what could happen or be true, but without strong evidence. For example: "It is "fairly possible" that the meeting will be delayed."

What are some alternatives to "fairly possible"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "reasonably possible", "quite possible", or "somewhat likely". The best choice depends on the precise shade of meaning you want to convey.

Is "fairly possible" the same as "highly possible"?

No, "fairly possible" indicates a moderate level of possibility, while "highly possible" suggests a greater degree of likelihood. They are not interchangeable.

When should I use "fairly possible" versus "possible"?

"Possible" simply states that something can occur, while "fairly possible" implies a slightly higher probability than just being conceivable. Use "fairly possible" when there's some reason to believe it's more than just remotely achievable.