grim possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"grim possibility" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something bad that is likely to happen, for example: "We must face the grim possibility that the outcome of the situation may not be in our favor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

The current fighting has raised another grim possibility for the families.

The Guardian

Fortunately, we can prepare for this grim possibility without exposing ourselves to unnecessary risk.

The New Yorker

This grim possibility is implicit in the Rolling Stone profile that undid Gen. Stanley McChrystal last week.

The New York Times

Another more grim possibility is that another invasive species could offer some competition for the Argentine ants.

The New York Times - Science

That must be because he was watching it, he decided, although he once more considered the grim possibility that it was dead.

The New Yorker

Another grim possibility is that the sponsor could default, which might send the building into the arms of a bank and then off to some unknown entity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

It lumps the atom's grim possibilities & its pretty one, thereby creating a false sense of the interchangeability & equality between the two.

The New Yorker

It stands as a testament to the grim possibilities of modern Hollywood storytelling and an heir to the legendary sequence of explosions that ends Michelangelo Antonioni's "Zabriskie Point".

The New Yorker

At the moment of composition the voices on the radio tell us only that there are two grim possibilities- war, bankruptcy, and absolutism under Roosevelt; war, privilege and black reaction under Willkie.

The New Yorker

None of the senators who listened to Mr. Paulson and Mr. Bernanke disputed the grim possibilities if Congress should do nothing, but it was clear that they were hearing from their angry constituents.

The New York Times

Without a deal to receive its remaining bailout cash soon, Greece faces the grim possibilities of defaulting on its debt or ditching the euro.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about complex issues, avoid sugarcoating potential risks. Using "grim possibility" can help you address uncomfortable truths in a professional and forthright manner.

Common error

Avoid using "grim possibility" in situations that are merely inconvenient or mildly negative. Reserve it for scenarios that genuinely carry significant adverse consequences, preventing the phrase from losing its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grim possibility" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a negative scenario or outcome that is likely to happen. Ludwig highlights how the phrase is utilized in various contexts to introduce serious concerns.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grim possibility" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce a potentially negative outcome. As Ludwig confirms, it's used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, formal business settings, and scientific discussions. When using this phrase, consider alternative phrasings like "bleak prospect" or "dire scenario" to add nuance. However, avoid using "grim possibility" in overly dramatic contexts to maintain its impact. Overall, the phrase effectively communicates a need for serious consideration of a potential adverse event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bleak prospect

Focuses more on the discouraging outlook rather than just a possibility.

ominous outlook

Emphasizes a sense of foreboding and impending negativity.

dire scenario

Implies a more serious and urgent situation than a simple possibility.

unpleasant potential

Replaces "grim" with "unpleasant" and "possibility" with "potential", softening the tone slightly.

troubling eventuality

Replaces "possibility" with "eventuality", suggesting a higher likelihood.

gloomy forecast

Presents the possibility as a prediction or expectation.

unwelcome consequence

Focuses on the result or effect of a particular situation, if it were to occur.

worrying contingency

Frames the possibility as a plan or provision for something bad.

dark future

Shifts the focus to the future and uses a stronger adjective to convey negativity.

grave danger

Highlights the severity and potential consequences of the possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "grim possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "grim possibility" to introduce a negative scenario that needs to be considered, such as, "We must acknowledge the "grim possibility" of project delays due to unforeseen circumstances."

What phrases are similar to "grim possibility"?

Alternatives include "bleak prospect", "dire scenario", or "ominous outlook", which all convey a sense of negative potential outcomes.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "grim possibility"?

Use "grim possibility" when you need to address a potentially severe negative outcome that, while uncertain, warrants serious attention and planning. For example, when discussing financial risks or public health concerns.

Is "grim possibility" considered formal or informal language?

"Grim possibility" is generally considered appropriate for neutral to formal contexts, like news reports, business documents, and academic papers. However, avoid in overly informal or casual conversation.