is rather possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is rather possible" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward to native speakers.
It can be used to express that something is somewhat likely or feasible, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "While the outcome is uncertain, it is rather possible that we will achieve our goals this quarter."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Moreover, by comparing perceived factors with preferred factors, it is rather possible to see how respondents receive what they want.

European Transport Research Review

While most cDNAs were spliced at one site, it is clear that the trans-splicing site is not an exact AG acceptor, but is rather possible at two or more sites per cluster (Figure 7).

Plosone

It is rather possible that the operational procedure for colorectal cancer, according to local standards, does not cause significant bacteremia.

Disease Markers

According to the participants, it is rather possible for student-teachers to teach ultrasound contents than to teach arthroscopic basic skills (p < 0.001; Table  3).

BMC Medical Education

However, given their important roles in nucleotide pool maintenance and DNA repair (Hasan et al, 2001), it is rather possible that downregulation of these two genes upon HDAC inhibition could cause further impairment in DNA repair.

EMBO Molecular Medicine

While this could indicate a higher responsiveness of certain tumours to trastuzumab, it is rather possible that this result would have been observed with lapatinib or chemotherapy alone as well.

BMC Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The danger is not Fascism, as many say it is, but is, rather, that it is possible to come to power merely on slogans refuting current policy".

The New Yorker

In many cases there is rather a tendency, whenever possible, to treat malaria with other drugs, and to withhold PQ in the interest of safety.

British Journal of Haematology

Lying to the F.B.I., as serious as that charge is, rather pales next to a possible kidnapping conspiracy.

The New Yorker

It is, rather, a breathless account of possible implications opened up by the rise of neuroscience as a way of looking at the world.

The Guardian - Books

The interpretation of such results is rather blind relative to a possible inhomogeneous internal performance.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically correct, consider using more common alternatives like "is quite possible" or "is fairly likely" to improve clarity and flow.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on the phrase "is rather possible", as it can sound somewhat formal or stilted. Vary your language by using synonyms like "is quite possible" or "is fairly likely" to achieve a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is rather possible" functions as an evaluative expression, indicating a moderate degree of likelihood or feasibility. Ludwig examples show its use in scientific and general contexts. It serves to qualify statements by suggesting a possibility without strong commitment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is rather possible" is grammatically acceptable but not the most common way to express possibility. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that while it is understandable, alternative phrases such as "is quite possible" or "is fairly likely" are often preferred for clearer and more natural communication. It is most frequently encountered in scientific and news contexts. Use this phrase judiciously, considering audience and context to ensure optimal clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is quite possible

Emphasizes a higher degree of possibility compared to "is rather possible".

is fairly possible

Similar in meaning but slightly more common and natural-sounding.

is indeed possible

Adds emphasis to the possibility.

is distinctly possible

Highlights that the possibility is clear and noticeable.

is not unlikely

Uses a double negative to suggest possibility, often implying a reasonable chance.

is conceivably possible

Suggests that the possibility can be imagined or thought of.

is potentially possible

Highlights the potential for something to happen.

is plausibly possible

Indicates that something could be believable or credible.

is reasonably possible

Implies that there are good reasons to believe something is possible.

is realistically possible

Suggests that the possibility is grounded in reality and practical considerations.

FAQs

What does "is rather possible" mean?

The phrase "is rather possible" means that something has a reasonable chance of happening or being true. It suggests a degree of likelihood, though perhaps not a strong certainty.

What can I say instead of "is rather possible"?

You can use alternatives like "is quite possible", "is fairly likely", or "is distinctly possible" depending on the context.

Is "is rather possible" formal or informal?

The phrase "is rather possible" leans towards the formal side, but it can sound somewhat awkward. Using simpler and more direct alternatives is often preferable in both formal and informal contexts.

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

You can use "is rather possible" to express a moderate degree of possibility. For example: "While the outcome is uncertain, it "is rather possible" that we will achieve our goals this quarter."