is only possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'is only possible' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to suggest that something is the only way, or the only option. For example: "Gaining a full understanding of the situation is only possible if all the facts are examined carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is only possible with your presence.

Independent

Ellipsis is only possible in certain contexts.

Stanford University

Yet equal consideration is only possible with equal citizen voice.

Princeton University

Consistency is only possible when you have a settled lineup.

The Guardian - Sport

This is only possible as a friendly deal," he added.

The Guardian - Sport

Currently, this is only possible in exceptional cases.

The Guardian

It is only possible to lose something that one owns.

The Guardian - Opinion

Youth football is only possible through the support of parents.

The Guardian - Sport

"That is only possible because of our founder.

The Guardian

Change is only possible if the user wants it.

The Guardian

Kayaking is only possible when the dams are opened.

The Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is only possible", ensure the condition that makes it possible is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "Success is only possible with dedicated effort."

Common error

Avoid using "is only possible" without specifying the condition that enables it. Omitting the condition can leave the reader confused about what makes the outcome achievable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is only possible" functions as a linking verb phrase that connects a subject to a condition or requirement. It asserts that a particular outcome or state can happen, but exclusively under certain specified circumstances. Ludwig's examples clearly showcase this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

28%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is only possible" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that something can occur, but solely under specific conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts. Its frequent presence in news, academic, and scientific sources suggests a wide applicability. To ensure clarity, always state the condition that makes the outcome possible. By considering both best practices and potential errors, writers can effectively use "is only possible" to convey precise meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is exclusively achievable

Emphasizes that something can be accomplished solely under certain conditions.

is solely attainable

Highlights the uniqueness of the circumstances required for something to be reached.

is uniquely feasible

Stresses that feasibility depends on specific, limited conditions.

is conditionally viable

Highlights that viability is dependent on certain conditions being met.

is exclusively within reach

Indicates that access or attainment is limited to specific scenarios.

hinges entirely on

Highlights the complete dependence of a result on a single factor.

is strictly dependent on

Emphasizes the rigorous conditionality required for an outcome.

is entirely contingent on

Points out that the outcome is subject to specific circumstances.

relies exclusively upon

Underlines that success is completely reliant on a specific element.

is limited exclusively to

Specifies that something is confined to a restricted set of conditions or situations.

FAQs

How can I use "is only possible" in a sentence?

Use "is only possible" to indicate a necessary condition for something to occur. For example, "Achieving the target "is only possible with" a dedicated team".

What are some alternatives to "is only possible"?

Alternatives include "is exclusively achievable", "is solely attainable", or "is uniquely feasible", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is only possible because"?

Yes, "is only possible because" is grammatically correct. It introduces the reason or condition that makes something possible. For example, "The project's success "is only possible because" of the team's hard work".

What's the difference between "is possible" and "is only possible"?

"Is possible" indicates that something can occur, while "is only possible" emphasizes that it can occur but under specific and limited conditions, like: "Graduation "is possible" with good grades, but graduation "is only possible" with the fulfillment of ALL requirements.