keep the possibility open

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep the possibility open" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing options or opportunities that may be available in the future, indicating a desire to remain flexible. Example: "I think we should keep the possibility open for collaboration, as it could benefit both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"It's not like we're rushing out and saying 'We want to run [the Tevatron] in 2012!' But we want to keep the possibility open," says Fermilab's Dmitri Denisov, co-spokesperson for the 510 member team working with Fermilab's D0 particle detector.

Science Magazine

"Sometimes you have to leave room for mistakes and keep the possibility open for something magical to happen".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It seems that we cannot rely on just one definition of a target group, but also have to keep the possibilities open for recruitment of additional older persons seeking case managers' assistance.

BMC Geriatrics

His remarks about Kim being a "smart cookie" and his assertions that he would be willing to meet with the North Korean leader will be what helps him to keep the possibility of engagement open and eventually lead to dialogue where other U.S. leaders have failed.

Huffington Post

While it remains unclear whether the talks will formally resume, Deutsche Telekom is eager to keep the possibility of acquiring Qwest open.

The New York Times

White House officials have kept the possibility of diplomacy open, even as the United Nations has imposted harsh sanctions on North Korea.

Huffington Post

I always leave the possibility open".

Independent

That process, under the circumstances, should begin unilaterally, but we should keep the door wide open to the possibility of resuming negotiations, were a Palestinian leadership to demonstrate a genuine readiness to make painful decisions.

The New York Times

"In this case, we think it is better to keep the door wide open to the possibility that the heart-shaped symbol might have been interpreted by the 18th-century mourners as a sankofa from their homeland".

The New York Times - Arts

Keep the windows open.

The New Yorker

Keep the door open.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In strategic planning, employ "keep the possibility open" to convey adaptability and preparedness for unforeseen opportunities or challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "keep the possibility open" in overly passive constructions that obscure agency. Instead of saying "The possibility was kept open", opt for "We decided to keep the possibility open" to highlight who is making the decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep the possibility open" functions as a verbal phrase expressing a deliberate choice to maintain an option or opportunity. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep the possibility open" is a versatile phrase used to express a desire to maintain options and flexibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse contexts, including news, science, and formal communications. While its register is generally neutral, it can be adapted for varied settings. Common alternatives include "leave the door open" and "preserve the option". When using this phrase, be mindful of avoiding passive constructions and strive for clear, direct communication. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "keep the possibility open" to convey strategic thinking and adaptability in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leave the door open

This phrase emphasizes maintaining an opportunity for future engagement or reconsideration.

maintain optionality

This phrase highlights the preservation of multiple potential choices or courses of action.

preserve the option

This alternative focuses on actively safeguarding a specific choice or opportunity.

remain open to the idea

This phrase suggests a willingness to consider a particular concept or suggestion.

consider the potential

This alternative underscores the act of evaluating the inherent possibilities within a situation.

entertain the chance

This suggests a willingness to explore a particular prospect or opportunity.

not rule out the prospect

This phrase indicates that a particular possibility is still under consideration.

hold something in reserve

This alternative implies retaining a resource or option for future use, if needed.

explore the potentiality

This option emphasizes a thorough investigation of the possibilities.

allow for the chance

This implies providing an opportunity or creating conditions where something might occur.

FAQs

How can I use "keep the possibility open" in a sentence?

You can use "keep the possibility open" to suggest maintaining flexibility or considering future options. For example, "We should "keep the possibility open" for further negotiations".

What's a more formal alternative to "keep the possibility open"?

In a more formal context, consider using "preserve the option" or "maintain optionality" as alternatives to ""keep the possibility open"".

Is it better to say "keep the possibility open" or "leave the door open"?

Both ""keep the possibility open"" and "leave the door open" are acceptable, but "keep the possibility open" is slightly more direct about maintaining an option, while "leave the door open" implies a general willingness to reconsider.

Can "keep the possibility open" be used in negative contexts?

Yes, ""keep the possibility open"" can be used in negative contexts to express reluctance to dismiss an idea or option. For example, "Despite the challenges, we must keep open the possibility that a solution can be found".