is a remote possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a remote possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is unlikely to happen but not impossible. Example: "While it may seem unlikely, there is a remote possibility that we could see a significant change in the weather this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

But the text suggests that this is a remote possibility.

The Economist

China analysts think the chances of Beijing agreeing to the latter is a remote possibility.

The Guardian

There is a remote possibility that charges could be filed against both men.

The New York Times - Sports

Speaking of teenagers, he said: "Death is a remote possibility in his brain.

The New York Times

That 15th major is a remote possibility at best, unless he locates his mojo sharpish.

Independent

Don Mattingly is a remote possibility, having said repeatedly that he likes being home while his children are approaching adulthood.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

If Roe were overturned on those grounds, c. would be a remote possibility.

The New York Times

I'm not even saying that the playoffs are a remote possibility today.

The New York Times - Sports

As for a potential takeover, Mr. Buffett says that's a remote possibility.

The New York Times

Deflation in the euro zone is far from being a remote possibility.

The Economist

Before the order, bankruptcy was a remote possibility; now it feels more likely.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is a remote possibility", ensure the context clarifies why the possibility is unlikely. Adding a brief explanation enhances clarity and avoids misleading the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "is a remote possibility" when the event is virtually impossible. The phrase implies a slight chance, so reserve it for scenarios where some degree of possibility, however small, exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a remote possibility" functions as a qualifier, indicating a low probability or chance of something occurring. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used to express that an event is unlikely but not entirely impossible.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

32%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is a remote possibility" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to convey a low likelihood of an event, without completely dismissing it. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and the examples provided showcase its presence across diverse sources like News & Media and Science, highlighting its neutral tone and versatility. Consider alternatives such as "is a slim chance" or "is unlikely" depending on the specific nuance you wish to express. While "is a remote possibility" is generally suitable, remember to avoid overstating the likelihood of the event and to clarify the reasons for its remoteness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a slim chance

Replaces "remote possibility" with "slim chance" to denote a small likelihood.

is improbable

Uses a single adjective to directly state the unlikelihood of something.

is a long shot

Replaces "remote possibility" with the idiomatic expression "long shot", implying a low chance of success.

is an unlikely event

Substitutes "remote possibility" with "unlikely event" to emphasize the low probability of a specific occurrence.

is a distant prospect

Emphasizes the unlikelihood and far-off nature of a particular outcome.

is a faint hope

Replaces "remote possibility" with "faint hope" to suggest a minimal level of optimism.

is against all odds

Suggests that something is very unlikely to happen, going against prevailing circumstances.

is hardly conceivable

Indicates that something is difficult to imagine or believe, similar to a remote possibility.

is just barely possible

Highlights the minimal level of possibility, almost to the point of impossibility.

is a pipe dream

Implies that something is an unrealistic or fanciful aspiration with little chance of realization.

FAQs

How can I use "is a remote possibility" in a sentence?

Use "is a remote possibility" to indicate that something is unlikely but not impossible. For example: "While a full economic recovery is uncertain, there "is a remote possibility" of stabilization by the end of the year."

What can I say instead of "is a remote possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "is a slim chance", "is unlikely", or "is improbable" depending on the context.

When should I use "is a remote possibility" vs. "is impossible"?

"Is a remote possibility" suggests a small chance exists, while "is impossible" means there is no chance at all. Use "is a remote possibility" when there's a theoretical or very unlikely chance, and "is impossible" when the event cannot occur under any circumstances.

Is it redundant to say "is a very remote possibility"?

While not strictly incorrect, "is a very remote possibility" can be slightly redundant. The word "remote" already implies a low likelihood. You can use it for emphasis, but consider using alternatives like "is highly unlikely" or "is extremely unlikely" for a similar effect.