it is only possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is only possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something can happen or be done, but only under certain conditions or limitations. Example: "It is only possible to achieve success if you are willing to put in the necessary effort and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is a first of its kind and it is only possible thanks to the web and video-conferencing.

Huffington Post

As CDH oxidises its substrate at the C1 it is only possible to gain two electrons per substrate molecule.

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

Is he claiming that his theory is certain or probable when it is only possible?

Huffington Post

Is the speaker claiming that the theory is certain or probable when it is only possible?

Huffington Post

It is only possible to lose something that one owns.

The Guardian - Opinion

Limited resources mean that it is only possible to serve one job at a time.

European Journal of Operational Research

Although this approximation simplifies the mathematical problem, it is only possible under certain circumstances.

Modeling in Transport Phenomena A Conceptual Approach

It is only possible to develop and host temporary exhibitions with this kind of external support.

The Guardian

It is only possible to collect 30,000 points within one collection period.

The Guardian - Money

It is only possible to do the job properly from behind the arras.

The Guardian

Maybe it is only possible to be frank if you are wearing a mask.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger alternatives if the context allows. While grammatically correct, "it is only possible" can sometimes sound weak. Use alternatives like "it requires" or "it necessitates" for more impactful writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it is only possible" without specifying what makes it possible. For example, instead of "It is only possible", say "It is only possible with significant investment".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only possible" functions as an adverbial phrase expressing a condition or limitation. Ludwig AI examples show it's used to indicate that something can occur or be achieved, but solely under specific circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is only possible" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something is contingent upon specific conditions or limitations. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including science, news and media. While alternatives exist to add emphasis or specificity, "it is only possible" provides a straightforward way to convey conditional possibility. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly articulate the conditions that make the outcome possible. By providing context and specific information, you make the phrase more effective in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is exclusively possible

Emphasizes that something is possible under one specific condition, excluding all others.

it is uniquely possible

Highlights the exceptional or rare nature of the conditions that make something possible.

it is solely possible

Similar to 'exclusively', indicating that something is achievable by only one means or method.

it is conditionally possible

Explicitly states that the possibility depends on fulfilling certain conditions.

it is feasible only if

Replaces 'possible' with 'feasible', focusing on practicality and conditions for achievement.

it is achievable only when

Shifts the emphasis to the act of achieving, specifying the necessary conditions.

it can only be done if

Simplifies the structure and emphasizes the action and its requirement.

it is contingent upon

Uses a more formal tone to express dependence on a specific event or condition.

the only way it is possible

Highlights that no other alternative enables the outcome.

it hinges on

Implies a critical dependence where the entire outcome rests on a specific factor.

FAQs

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

Use "it is only possible" to express a condition or limitation that allows something to happen. For example, "It is only possible to succeed with hard work".

What phrases are similar to "it is only possible"?

Alternatives include "it is exclusively possible", "it is solely possible", or "it is conditionally possible", each emphasizing a unique condition.

Is it better to use "it is only possible" or "it is possible only if"?

Both "it is only possible" and "it is possible only if" are grammatically correct, but the choice depends on the emphasis you want to convey. "It is only possible" highlights the limitation, while "it is possible only if" emphasizes the condition.

When is "it is only possible" not the best choice?

If you want to emphasize a necessity or requirement, consider using phrases like "it requires" or "it necessitates" instead.