in the realm of possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the realm of possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something is conceivable or feasible within the limits of what could happen. Example: "While it may seem unlikely, it is still in the realm of possibility that we could finish the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But this weekend showed how many things that you just would not believe are in the realm of possibility are possible".

The New York Times - Sports

"So I mean, I would have to say if you're just talking about what's in the realm of possibility of what's possible of who I could beat, well, I could beat 100percentt of them.

Huffington Post

That's in the realm of possibility".

The New York Times

"Because we knew it wasn't in the realm of possibility".

The New York Times

But is his $8 billion estimate in the realm of possibility?

The Washington Post

"It is in the realm of possibility that Cochran can net over $10 million a year," Mr. Brickman said.

The New York Times

Nor is it pioneering new services that are so irresistible, or growing so quickly, that high-touch service is not in the realm of possibility.

Harvard Business Review

Although it is in the realm of possibility that one of the settlers was from Gravesend in Kent, Lady Moody was not.

The New York Times

Using color saturation or gradients to show that values are becoming less and less likely — but still in the realm of possibility — is another way.

Harvard Business Review

It's in the realm of possibility to be very successful, but we're going to have to start playing better and I'm confident we will".

The New York Times - Sports

"To think we were going to come back and score three runs against Benitez the way he's throwing wasn't in the realm of possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing future scenarios or potential outcomes, use "in the realm of possibility" to indicate that an event is conceivable, even if unlikely. This adds nuance and avoids definitive statements.

Common error

Avoid using "in the realm of possibility" when describing highly probable events. This phrase is best suited for situations that are conceivable but not necessarily likely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the realm of possibility" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to express that something is conceivable or feasible. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Academia

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the realm of possibility" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey that something is conceivable, though not necessarily probable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable across various contexts, with a higher prevalence in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure that it aligns with the intended nuance, especially in scenarios where the likelihood isn't being overstated. Consider alternatives such as "within the bounds of possibility" or "potentially achievable" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within the bounds of possibility

Emphasizes the limits or constraints within which something can occur.

within the scope of possibility

Highlights the range or extent to which something is possible.

potentially achievable

Focuses on the capacity to reach or attain something.

conceivable

Indicates the capacity to be imagined or understood.

feasible

Stresses the practicality and workability of an idea or plan.

imaginable

Highlights the ability to be pictured or formed in the mind.

within reason

Suggests that something is logical and not excessive.

not beyond the pale

Implies that something is acceptable or within the limits of what is tolerable.

theoretically possible

Emphasizes the potential for something to exist or occur based on theoretical grounds.

a distinct possibility

Highlights that there is clear chance something can happen.

FAQs

How can I use "in the realm of possibility" in a sentence?

Use "in the realm of possibility" to indicate that something is conceivable but not necessarily probable. For example, "While a complete economic recovery seems distant, it's still "in the realm of possibility"".

What are some alternatives to "in the realm of possibility"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "within the bounds of possibility", "potentially achievable", or "conceivable".

Is it better to say "in the realm of possibility" or "possible"?

"Possible" is a more general term. "In the realm of possibility" suggests something is conceivable but perhaps less likely or more theoretical. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "in the realm of possibility" and "in the realm of probability"?

"In the realm of possibility" indicates something is conceivable, while "in the realm of probability" suggests it is likely to happen. Probability implies a higher degree of likelihood than possibility.