if it is possible that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if it is possible that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing hypothetical situations or possibilities. Example: "I wonder if it is possible that we could finish the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

In its simplest form, the argument is (1) if it is possible that it is necessary that a supernatural being of some sort exists, then it is necessary that a supernatural being of that sort exists.

SEP

In the light of the foregoing observations, it appears that if it is possible that there are omnipotent agents of the sort in question, then possibly, one of them endeavors to make the feather move at t, while the other endeavors to keep it motionless at t, even given their hypothesized necessary areas of epistemic and moral agreement.

SEP

Fellow swimmers have asked if it is possible that Nyad was on a boat when those surges happened.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is still not clear if it is possible that their cars may momentarily malfunction and work inconsistently to design," Mr. Bell said.

The New York Times

Hygiene is important in all processes, because the production cannot be run if it is possible that microbes would infiltrate the process through surfaces and equipment that are used in association with the tank.

Handbook of Hygiene Control in the Food Industry

If it is possible that there is no God, then it would necessarily follow that there is no God.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Rather, these people really want to know if it's possible that someone as tall as me can possibly, ever, have a boyfriend.

The New York Times

I was wondering if it's possible that dark matter could be light.

Cornell University

"Someone asked me if it was possible that some clubs couldn't make it.

The New York Times - Sports

Imagine, if it's possible, that you are a serious American conservative.

The Guardian

He looked at her, wondering if it was possible that she was his wife at last.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if it is possible that" to introduce a hypothetical situation or a condition that needs to be met for a certain outcome to occur. For instance, "If it is possible that the climate change policies are implemented effectively, we can expect a significant reduction in carbon emissions."

Common error

Avoid using "if it is possible that" in sentences that assert facts or certainties. This phrase is best suited for discussing uncertain scenarios, not established realities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it is possible that" functions as a conditional clause, introducing a hypothetical scenario. It sets up a condition upon which the rest of the sentence depends. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

38%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if it is possible that" serves as a versatile conditional clause used to introduce hypothetical scenarios across a range of contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While predominantly found in scientific and news-related content, it maintains a neutral formality, making it appropriate for both formal and informal communications. Be mindful of overuse in declarative sentences, and consider alternatives to fine-tune the tone and emphasis of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it's conceivable that

Replaces "possible" with "conceivable", suggesting something imaginable or believable.

if it's conceivable for

Similar to "if it's conceivable that", but focuses on the conceivability of an action or state for a specific entity.

if there's a chance that

Uses "chance" instead of "possible", indicating a degree of uncertainty or probability.

in the event that it is possible

Adds a more formal tone by using "in the event that", emphasizing conditionality.

assuming it is possible that

Introduces an assumption of possibility, setting a condition for subsequent statements.

if the possibility exists that

Emphasizes the existence of a possibility, often used in more formal contexts.

should it be possible that

Uses "should" to express a more hypothetical or less certain condition.

if it happens to be possible that

Adds emphasis on the happenstance or contingency of the possibility.

on the chance that it is possible

Highlights the speculative nature of the possibility, often implying a risk or gamble.

if perchance it is possible that

Incorporates "perchance" to introduce a slight chance or uncertainty, adding a touch of formality.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "if it is possible that" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "in the event that it is possible" or "assuming it is possible that". These alternatives add a layer of formality suitable for academic or professional writing.

When is it appropriate to use "if it is possible that" in a sentence?

Use "if it is possible that" when you want to introduce a hypothetical situation or condition where the outcome is uncertain and depends on the fulfillment of that condition. It's suitable for speculative discussions.

What are some alternatives to "if it is possible that" for casual conversation?

In casual conversation, you could use phrases like "if there's a chance that" or "if it's conceivable that". These options are less formal and more conversational.

Is there a difference in meaning between "if it is possible that" and "if it might be possible that"?

The phrase "if it might be possible that" adds an extra layer of uncertainty. While "if it is possible that" suggests a potential condition, "if it might be possible that" implies the possibility of a possibility, making it even more speculative.