it might conceivably

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it might conceivably" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a possibility or likelihood of something happening, often in a speculative context. Example: "Given the current circumstances, it might conceivably rain tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Political Historian, David Barrett, uncovered Hillenkoetter's notes, which reveal the remainder of the statement: "While this agency will never employ homosexuals on its rolls, it might conceivably be necessary, and in the past has actually been valuable, to use known homosexuals as agents in the field.

Wikipedia

(Nowadays it might conceivably be used in a rhinoplasty ad).

The New York Times - Arts

In real life, it might conceivably have prompted her complaisance, even if forgiveness had remained beyond her reach.

The Guardian - Film

It might conceivably pass muster only after the EU scraps national bilateral deals with America, to let the European Commission negotiate on behalf of the whole union.

The Economist

Because it is not specific for any type of tumor, it might conceivably be effective for many types, though this is yet to be proved in clinical trials.

The New York Times

In September 2011, when American intelligence located him, it might conceivably have been possible to organize a capture by Yemeni or American commandos.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Gibson himself recalls "the only time I thought I might conceivably be eaten," by what may or may not have been a shark: "It was an unpleasant feeling".

The New York Times - Books

It might, just conceivably, be seen as revolutionary.

The Guardian

Blackmail, of course, but if well orchestrated it might just conceivably work.

The Guardian - Books

The questions swirling around the operation's command mirrored the larger strategic divisions over how exactly the coalition will bring it to an end — or even what the end might look like, and whether it might even conceivably include a Libya with Colonel Qaddafi remaining in some capacity.

The New York Times

And it might have conceivably continued to do so for a long time, except they put that damned research center in there.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using "it might conceivably". While acceptable in many settings, more formal or direct language might be preferable in certain situations.

Common error

Avoid using "it might conceivably" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can make your prose sound hesitant or overly cautious. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "possibly" or "potentially" to maintain a more engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it might conceivably" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause, expressing a degree of possibility or likelihood. Ludwig's analysis shows that it introduces a sense of uncertainty or speculation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it might conceivably" serves as a nuanced way to introduce possibilities or potential outcomes in writing and speech. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used in diverse contexts. Its function is to express likelihood with a touch of speculation, lending itself well to situations where certainty is not possible or desired. While alternatives exist to convey similar meanings, "it might conceivably" offers a balance between formality and accessibility. It is important to be mindful of overuse, which could detract from the overall impact. Using this phrase appropriately can enhance the sophistication and precision of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it could potentially

Replaces "might" with "could" and "conceivably" with "potentially", offering a slightly more direct expression of possibility.

it may possibly

Substitutes "might" with "may" and "conceivably" with "possibly", resulting in a more neutral tone.

it is possibly conceivable

Rephrases to emphasize the aspect of being "conceivable" as a possibility.

it is potentially plausible

Replaces both adverbs with synonyms, focusing on the plausibility of an event.

it is perhaps imaginable

Emphasizes the imaginability or hypothetical aspect of the situation.

it is remotely possible

Highlights the slight or distant possibility of something occurring.

it is not entirely impossible

Expresses possibility by negating impossibility, conveying a more cautious tone.

it is within the realm of possibility

Uses a more formal and elaborate structure to express the potential for something to happen.

it is theoretically possible

Focuses on the theoretical or hypothetical possibility, often used in scientific or academic contexts.

it is just about possible

Emphasizes the bare minimum of possibility, suggesting something is barely achievable.

FAQs

How can I use "it might conceivably" in a sentence?

Use "it might conceivably" to introduce a possibility or potential outcome, often one that requires some level of speculation or isn't immediately apparent. For example, "Given the new data, "it might conceivably" lead to a breakthrough."

What are some alternatives to "it might conceivably"?

Alternatives include "it could possibly", "it may potentially", or "it is possibly conceivable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it might conceivably" formal or informal?

"It might conceivably" is generally considered neutral in tone and suitable for a variety of contexts, from news articles to academic papers. However, depending on your audience, consider whether a more direct alternative such as "it could happen" would be more effective.

What is the difference between "it might conceivably" and "it is certain that"?

"It might conceivably" suggests a possibility, whereas "it is certain that" indicates a definite outcome. The former introduces uncertainty, while the latter expresses confidence. Using "it might conceivably" implies that the outcome is not guaranteed.