it is possibly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is possibly" is not correct in standard English; it should be "it is possible." You can use "it is possible" when indicating that something may happen or be true, but it is not certain.
Example: "It is possible that we will finish the project ahead of schedule if everyone works efficiently."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Its label explains that it is "possibly" effective for eczema and other skin conditions.

Los Angeles Times

Astonishingly, it is possibly even stranger.

The Guardian - Books

It is, possibly, even more ludicrous.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It is possibly the best footage yet.

The Guardian

It is possibly even what kept her alive.

The New Yorker

For his detractors, It is possibly the most obvious example.

The Guardian - Books

It is possibly the most dangerous workplace in the world.

The Guardian

It is possibly the same motivation war journalists feel.

The Guardian - Sport

But it is possibly a daft thing to do.

The Guardian - Books

It is possibly the most wrenching music on the album.

The New Yorker

It is possibly the world's earliest hand-held blender.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is possible" instead of "it is possibly" for grammatically correct expression. While the latter is frequently found, it's considered non-standard in formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using the adverb "possibly" when the adjective "possible" is required after the verb "is". The correct phrase is "it is possible", not "it is possibly".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is possibly" functions as a modal adverbial phrase, attempting to express a degree of possibility or uncertainty. However, as Ludwig AI points out, it's considered grammatically incorrect in standard English and should be replaced by "it is possible."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

32%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While the phrase "it is possibly" is frequently found in diverse sources such as news articles, scientific papers, and encyclopedias, it's crucial to recognize, as Ludwig AI highlights, that it's grammatically incorrect in standard English. The correct form is "it is possible". The intent behind "it is possibly" is to express uncertainty or likelihood, but using the accurate phrasing enhances clarity and credibility. When writing, particularly in formal contexts, prioritize using "it is possible" to maintain grammatical correctness and ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is perhaps

Adds a touch of uncertainty or speculation.

it may be

Another common way to express that something is a possibility.

it could be

A more conversational way to express possibility.

it is potentially

Focuses on the inherent capacity or potential for something to occur.

it is likely

Implies a higher degree of probability than "it is possibly".

it is probable

A more formal synonym indicating a good chance of something happening.

it is conceivable

Suggests something is imaginable or believable, though not necessarily likely.

it is feasible

Highlights the practicality or achievability of something.

it is imaginable

Emphasizes the capacity to form a mental image or idea of something.

it is thinkable

Indicates something is capable of being thought of or considered.

FAQs

Why is "it is possible" better than "it is possibly"?

"It is possible" is grammatically correct, using the adjective "possible" after the verb "is" to describe a state of being. "It is possibly" incorrectly uses the adverb "possibly" instead of the adjective.

What does "it is possible" mean?

The phrase "it is possible" means that something could happen or be true, but it is not certain. Similar phrases include "it may be" or "it could be".

When should I use "it is possible"?

Use "it is possible" when you want to express uncertainty about a future event or a present condition. For example, "It is possible that the meeting will be delayed."

Are there formal alternatives to "it is possible"?

Yes, formal alternatives include "it is probable", "it is conceivable", or "it is feasible". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.