few possibilities

USAGE SUMMARY

'few possibilities' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea that there are not many options available. For example: "Given the limited resources, there are only a few possibilities for how to proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A few possibilities are below.

Princeton University

Below are a few possibilities.

The Washington Post

Following are a few possibilities.

The New York Times - Travel

But there are a few possibilities.

The Economist

In Carroll Gardens, few possibilities appeared.

The New York Times

However, commentators have suggested a few possibilities.

Columbia University

There were so few possibilities for women.

The New Yorker

There are a few possibilities that I see.

The Economist

He cued up a few possibilities and let me listen.

The New York Times - Magazine

For the other two, I see a few possibilities.

Princeton University

Here are a few possibilities, gathered from several sources.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "few possibilities", ensure the context clearly indicates what those possibilities are or why they are limited. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the limitation when there are actually several viable options. Using "few possibilities" when numerous choices exist can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "few possibilities" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject of a sentence. It indicates a limited number of potential options, outcomes, or opportunities. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "few possibilities" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a limited set of options or potential outcomes. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely accepted and understood. Its versatility allows for usage across various contexts, from news and academic writing to scientific discussions. While alternatives like "limited options" or "scarce alternatives" can be used for variety, the core meaning remains consistent: a restricted range of choices. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates the nature and scope of these limited choices to avoid ambiguity and maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited options

This alternative emphasizes the constraint or restriction on available choices.

a limited number of options

This is a more verbose but direct way of expressing the same idea.

scarce alternatives

This phrase highlights the rarity or limited availability of different choices.

restricted choices

This focuses on the limitation imposed on the set of options available.

a handful of opportunities

This alternative uses a more figurative expression, indicating a small number of chances.

limited potential

This phrase relates to constraints on future outcomes or developments.

rare instances

This highlights the infrequency of certain occurrences or cases.

narrow scope

This emphasizes the constrained range or extent of something.

reduced likelihood

Focuses on the lower probability of something happening.

minimal prospects

This conveys a pessimistic view of future possibilities or outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "few possibilities" in a sentence?

You can use "few possibilities" to indicate a limited number of options or potential outcomes. For example, "Due to the budget cuts, there are "few possibilities" for expanding the program this year."

What can I say instead of "few possibilities"?

You can use alternatives like "limited options", "scarce alternatives", or "restricted choices" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "few possibilities" or "a few possibilities"?

"Few possibilities" suggests a smaller number and a more limiting situation than "a few possibilities". The choice depends on the degree of limitation you want to convey.

What's the difference between "few possibilities" and "limited possibilities"?

"Few possibilities" emphasizes the small quantity, while "limited possibilities" highlights the constraints or restrictions on those possibilities. The choice often depends on the nuance you want to convey.