it is potentially possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is potentially possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a tentative, not necessarily certain, possibility. For example: "It is potentially possible that new species of animals still remain to be discovered in the unexplored depths of the ocean."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

However, it is potentially possible that slight changes in the venous return, not detectable by the central venous pressure, might have contributed to a recruitment of previously closed vessels.

Annals of Intensive Care

When such data exist, it is potentially possible to measure the impact of different policies on each of these outcomes and try to assess which policy has produced the best overall impact.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

However, it is potentially possible that, in humans, infection-exposure favors pB-ALL in children harboring an intrinsic genetic susceptibility.

Aging

Using this strategy, it is potentially possible to generate large numbers of tumour reactive T cells rapidly.

British Journal of Cancer

By developing drugs aimed specifically at blocking these targets, it is potentially possible to arrest abnormal cell growth, disrupt tumour angiogenesis or induce cell death.

British Journal of Cancer

Because of the combined effects of selection and recombination, it is potentially possible to detect the signature of selection from variant patterns of allelic frequencies, as compared with neutral expectation (Cavalli Sforza, 1966; Lewontin and Krakauer, 1973).

Annals of Botany

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Yes, it's potentially possible.

The Guardian

Mr Key added it was "potentially possible" for his country to accept any genuine refugees from Australia.

Independent

For the first time, because of links between the Queniborough victims, it was potentially possible to trace the disease back and uncover the exact route of transmission.

The Guardian

Key said it was "potentially possible" the 37 babies could be accepted by New Zealand but "it would need to fit within the criteria that they are refugees as defined by the broader category that we take".

The Guardian

Rob Killeen at mortgage broker Capital Fortune said it was potentially possible that someone earning £100,000 a year, who lives a very frugal lifestyle – no dependants, cycles to work, doesn't take holidays, grows their own veg, no commitments such as gym membership – could borrow as much as £700,000 or £800,000.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is potentially possible" to introduce a possibility that requires further consideration or depends on certain conditions. For instance, "It is potentially possible to reduce carbon emissions by implementing renewable energy sources, but further research is needed."

Common error

Avoid using "it is potentially possible" when the outcome is highly probable or certain. This phrase suggests uncertainty, so choose a stronger statement if the possibility is near guaranteed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is potentially possible" functions as a hedge, softening a statement and indicating a degree of uncertainty or conditionality. According to Ludwig AI, it introduces an idea that might occur but isn't guaranteed. This allows for cautious speculation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is potentially possible" is a versatile expression used to convey a guarded sense of possibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly found in both scientific and news media contexts. While not appropriate for situations demanding certainty, it's perfect for introducing ideas that depend on specific conditions or require further exploration. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase when a stronger statement is warranted. By understanding its nuances, you can use this expression effectively to communicate uncertainty and conditionality in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is conceivably within the realm of possibility

Emphasizes that something can be imagined or believed.

it is within the realm of possibility

Highlights that something can actually happen or be achieved.

it is not beyond the realm of possibility

Suggests something is possible, though perhaps unlikely.

it is theoretically doable

Focuses on the theoretical aspects of possibility.

it is possibly achievable

Highlights that something can be achieved or attained.

it is plausibly viable

Points out that something may be realistic.

it is realistically attainable

Focuses on the practical aspects of possibility.

it is reasonably likely

Expresses a good chance for happening.

it is not impossible

Expresses that something is not completely impossible.

it is a chance

A more informal way to suggest a possibility.

FAQs

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

Use "it is potentially possible" to introduce an idea or outcome that might occur or be achieved, but is not guaranteed. For example, "It is potentially possible to find a cure for cancer in the next decade with advances in biotechnology."

What are some alternatives to "it is potentially possible"?

You can use alternatives like "it might be possible", "it is conceivable", or "it is plausible depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it is potentially possible"?

Use "it is potentially possible" when you want to express a degree of uncertainty or when the outcome depends on various factors. It suggests a possibility that exists but is not assured.

What's the difference between "it is potentially possible" and "it is possible"?

"It is possible" indicates a general possibility, while "it is potentially possible" emphasizes that the possibility exists given certain conditions or factors, implying a need for further consideration or action.