float the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "float the possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting or introducing an idea or option for consideration in a discussion or decision-making process. Example: "During the meeting, I would like to float the possibility of extending our project deadline to ensure quality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

(Councillors also float the possibility the line could open earlier than summer 2014).

The Guardian

Liddiard is doubtful when I float the possibility he's slowly but surely morphing into one of them.

The Guardian - Music

In appointing him, Obama seemed consciously to float the possibility that Holbrooke would participate in a similar bargain in South Asia.

The New Yorker

But Donald Rumsfeld, the defence secretary, and Paul Wolfowitz, his deputy, also float the possibility of removing Saddam Hussein in Iraq.

The Guardian

She growls at the BBC for daring even to float the possibility of moving its "Yesterday in Parliament" programme from its prime morning slot.In all her agitations, the speaker is backed by a dark army of parliamentary clerks.

The Economist

David Cameron stepped up the pressure on Nick Clegg tonight to sign a binding cross-party programme for government by despatching Sir John Major to float the possibility of handing cabinet posts to senior Liberal Democrats.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

After that, Varane's advisers have floated the possibility that he could go on loan to another club, possibly Paris Saint-Germain, next season.

The Guardian - Sport

Trump's tax rate itself has been posited as a possible reason for the campaign's reticence; the New York Times today floated the possibility that Trump may have paid zero federal income tax in some years.

The Guardian

"The government is floating the possibility of an I.M.F.

The New York Times

She also floated the possibility of the final decisions being linked to international benchmarks.

The Guardian

Farah also floated the possibility of a rare 10,000m-marathon double at Rio 2016.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "float the possibility" when you want to introduce an idea tentatively, implying that it's being presented for initial consideration and is open to discussion or modification.

Common error

Avoid using "float the possibility" in contexts that require directness or precision. In formal reports or critical analyses, a more straightforward phrase like "suggest" or "propose" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

"Float the possibility" primarily functions as a verb phrase used to introduce a suggestion or idea for consideration. It softens the introduction, implying that the idea is not yet fully formed or endorsed, as seen in Ludwig's examples from news and media sources. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "float the possibility" is a phrase used to tentatively introduce an idea or suggestion for consideration. As per Ludwig, it is usable and correct in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to invite discussion without committing to a firm proposal. While grammatically sound, overuse in formal or scientific writing should be avoided in favor of more direct language like "suggest" or "propose". Key authoritative sources employing this phrase include The Guardian, The New Yorker, and The New York Times. Remember to use it when you want to introduce an idea tentatively and gauge reactions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

propose the idea

Directly suggests an idea for consideration, removing the metaphorical aspect of "float".

suggest the option

Presents a specific option, implying a choice among alternatives.

raise the prospect

Introduces a potential future event or situation.

put forward the suggestion

Formally presents a suggestion for discussion or approval.

table the proposition

More formal and business-oriented, suggesting a formal proposal is being presented.

advance the concept

Introduces a theoretical idea or abstract concept.

broach the subject

Cautiously introduces a potentially sensitive or difficult topic.

posit the theory

Presents a theory or hypothesis for academic or scientific consideration.

explore the avenue

Suggests investigating a particular course of action or approach.

ventilate the notion

To publicly discuss an idea, revealing it.

FAQs

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

You can use "float the possibility" to introduce a suggestion or idea. For example, "The committee decided to float the possibility of a new marketing campaign".

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

You can use alternatives like "propose the idea", "suggest the option", or "raise the prospect" depending on the context.

Is "float the possibility" formal or informal?

"Float the possibility" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It is suitable for news articles and professional communications but might be too indirect for very informal settings.

What's the difference between "float the possibility" and "suggest"?

"Float the possibility" implies a more tentative or preliminary suggestion compared to "suggest", which can indicate a stronger endorsement of the idea. Floating an idea often means putting it out there for initial reaction.