it may possibly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it may possibly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or suggesting a possibility regarding a situation or outcome. Example: "It may possibly rain tomorrow, so we should bring an umbrella just in case."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His popularity continues even as the 1938 estimation of his early supporter, art critic and later museum director James Johnson Sweeney, has proved accurate: "Calder is an original artist whose contribution is so unique that it may possibly only be appraised of its true value by the future".

Encyclopedia Britannica

It may possibly be one of the great international accords of the post-war era.

The New Yorker

I suspect that it may possibly have started life as something rather different.

The Guardian - Film

All because it may — possibly, one day— be home to the city's first Wal-Mart store.

The New York Times

In fact, it may possibly damage the tree by sealing in moisture that could cause rot and decay.

The New York Times

One strikingly beautiful lichen is named not for what it may possibly cure, but for what it killed.

The New York Times - Science

I feel it may possibly have a rejuvenating effect somewhat like Ponce de Leon's fountain of youth.

The New Yorker

For the moment, Waterstones has not been swept away, but it may possibly have handed the broom to big fat Amazon.

The Guardian

As a tactic to raise its profile and popularity among (mostly Hindu) voters in other parts of India, it may possibly work.

The Economist

This is the slightly less desirable long-wheelbase model, but it may possibly be the weekend's high sale with an estimate of $5.5 million to $7 million.

The New York Times

It may possibly owe something to the after-effects of a motor problem in her legs, which forced her since childhood to plan the smallest of manoeuvres in advance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it may possibly" when you want to emphasize uncertainty or suggest a less probable outcome. While grammatically correct, consider whether a simpler phrase like "it might" or "it could" would convey the same meaning more concisely.

Common error

Avoid using "it may possibly" too frequently in your writing, as it can make your prose sound redundant or hesitant. Vary your language by using stronger or more direct expressions when appropriate. Consider if the double emphasis on possibility is truly needed or if a single modal verb would suffice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may possibly" functions as a modal phrase, expressing a degree of uncertainty or possibility. As Ludwig AI suggests, its usage reflects a cautious approach, indicating that an event or outcome is not definite. It's often employed when speculating or hypothesizing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it may possibly" is a grammatically correct way to express uncertainty or possibility, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While frequently used, it is often considered redundant, as the modal verb "may" already implies possibility. Its usage is prevalent in science and news media, suggesting a preference for caution and hedging. Alternatives such as "it might" or "it could" can offer more concise phrasing. When writing, consider whether the additional emphasis on possibility is truly needed, or if a simpler expression would suffice. The phrase functions to tentatively suggest outcomes in a variety of formal and neutral contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might possibly

Adds a slightly more informal tone while retaining the double expression of possibility.

it could possibly

Similar to "it might possibly", offering a slightly different nuance in expressing possibility.

it may be possible

Rephrases the sentence structure to emphasize the possibility aspect more directly.

it is potentially possible

Emphasizes the potential aspect, suggesting something has the capacity to happen.

it is perhaps possible

Introduces "perhaps" for a more literary or thoughtful tone, while indicating possibility.

it may be conceivable

Suggests the possibility is within the realm of imagination or understanding.

it could conceivably

Similar to "it may be conceivable" but uses "could" to soften the statement.

it may potentially

Highlights the potential for something to occur, dropping the second 'possibly'.

it is likely possible

Indicates a higher degree of probability while still acknowledging it's not certain.

it is remotely possible

Implies the possibility exists, but it is unlikely.

FAQs

What does "it may possibly" mean?

The phrase "it may possibly" indicates a degree of uncertainty or a low probability of something happening. It's used to suggest that something is a possibility, but not a certainty.

What can I say instead of "it may possibly"?

You can use alternatives like "it might", "it could", or "it is possible" depending on the context. These options can sound less redundant.

Is "it may possibly" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it may possibly" is grammatically correct, but it's sometimes considered redundant because "may" already indicates possibility. The addition of "possibly" emphasizes this uncertainty.

When should I use "it may possibly" vs "it may"?

Use "it may possibly" when you want to emphasize the uncertainty or low probability of an event. "It may" is suitable for general possibilities, while adding "possibly" increases the sense of doubt or speculation.