heightens the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "heightens the possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing factors that increase the likelihood of an event or outcome occurring. Example: "The new marketing strategy heightens the possibility of reaching a broader audience and increasing sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The fact people have guns mainly either as a defence precaution which greatly heightens the possibility of people being killed, or because they enjoy shooting.

The Guardian - Opinion

Any deal the Knicks make for Sprewell is most likely to be a complicated three-team trade, which heightens the possibility that Sprewell will remain with the Knicks, at least until the trading deadline in February.

The New York Times - Sports

With Japan added to the mix, this only heightens the possibility that simply getting to the moon will not become the end-all and be-all of space innovation, but rather the launching point for a new era in space innovation.

The Washington Post

This circumstance heightens the possibility that Kim Jong-un's demise could spark a complicated family battle for succession that could upend the viability of the regime.

Forbes

Which heightens the possibility for misunderstanding and inadvertent conflict.

Huffington Post

In fact, it statically heightens the possibility of fatality in your midst.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

In runoffs in two newly drawn Congressional districts in North Carolina, black candidates won, heightening the possibility that North Carolina could send two blacks to Congress in November.

The New York Times

But that also sows vulnerability, heightening the possibility that hours are cut when the economy slows and demand for goods and services dries up.

The New York Times

It also heightened the possibility that the Speaker would yank the investigation away from Mr. Burton and hand it to the chairman of the Committee on House Oversight, Representative Bill Thomas of California.

The New York Times

The danger, the ICG warns, is that such pressures could exacerbate the military situation and heighten the possibility of violent escalation.There is only so much the outside world can do.

The Economist

After the deadliest wildfire in state history, a downpour in the same area heightened the possibility of mudslides.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "heightens the possibility", ensure that the context clearly defines what factors are contributing to the increased likelihood. Clarity enhances the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid implying a direct causal relationship when using "heightens the possibility". The phrase suggests an increased likelihood, not a guaranteed outcome. Use conditional language to reflect uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heightens the possibility" functions as a verb phrase that modifies a noun, indicating an increased likelihood or potential. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It serves to illustrate that certain actions or circumstances make a particular outcome more probable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

6.666666666666667%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3.3333333333333335%

Academia

3.3333333333333335%

Formal & Business

3.3333333333333335%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "heightens the possibility" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that indicates an increased likelihood of an event or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and suggests alternatives like "increases the likelihood" or "enhances the chance". While versatile, the phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity and avoid implying direct causation. Remember that "heightens" suggests an increase in existing potential, rather than the creation of a new one.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increases the likelihood

Replaces "heightens" with "increases" and "possibility" with "likelihood", offering a more direct and commonly used alternative.

enhances the chance

Substitutes "heightens" with "enhances" and "possibility" with "chance", providing a slightly less formal option.

raises the prospect

Replaces "heightens the possibility" with "raises the prospect", focusing on the potential or future outlook.

boosts the potential

Substitutes "heightens" with "boosts" and "possibility" with "potential", suggesting a more significant increase in positive outcomes.

amplifies the potential

Similar to "boosts the potential", but implies a greater degree of magnification or increase.

aggravates the risk

Focuses on negative aspects by intensifying the dangers rather than the opportunities.

magnifies the probability

Offers a more formal alternative by employing "magnifies" and "probability", highlighting a substantial increase.

strengthens the opportunity

Shifts focus to emphasize reinforcing the opportunity

promotes the chance

Highlights that the chance is advancing.

cultivates the occasion

Suggests to develop the occasion by improving all aspects and considering all points of view

FAQs

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

Use "heightens the possibility" to indicate that a particular action or event increases the likelihood of another event occurring. For example, "Implementing stricter security measures "heightens the possibility" of preventing unauthorized access".

What are some alternatives to "heightens the possibility"?

Alternatives include "increases the likelihood", "enhances the chance", or "raises the prospect". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more correct to say "heightens the possibility" or "increases the possibility"?

Both "heightens the possibility" and "increases the possibility" are grammatically correct. "Increases" is more commonly used and straightforward, while "heightens" adds a slightly more emphatic tone.

What is the difference between "heightens the possibility" and "creates the possibility"?

"Heightens the possibility" implies that some chance already exists, and it is being increased. "Creates the possibility" indicates that something previously impossible is now conceivable. For example, "The new law creates the possibility of legalizing marijuana", whereas "Stricter enforcement heightens the possibility of reducing crime".