left the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "left the possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing options or outcomes that remain open or available for consideration. Example: "The negotiations were tough, but they left the possibility of a future partnership open."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

But his successor, Mr. Law, left the possibility open.

The New York Times

Sinodinos said it was unlikely but left the possibility open.

The Guardian

However, he left the possibility of him and May continuing without Clarkson.

Independent

Chief Justice Roberts wrote that Wednesday's decision left the possibility of criminal prosecution and other protections in place.

The New York Times

Had they waited a while and left the possibility of a Malawi win, Angola and Algeria might have been forced to play properly.

Independent

The European Union had already imposed an equal treatment system in 2007 but left the possibility for some unlimited transitional period.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

I always leave the possibility open".

Independent

Which leaves the possibility of suicide.

The Guardian - Film

That leaves the possibility of further appeal open.

The New York Times

That leaves the possibility of a constitutional fix.

The New York Times

Yesterday, Mr. Monti responded to the letter, again leaving the possibility of negotiations open.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "left the possibility" to clearly indicate that a specific outcome or option remains available, even if it is not the most likely one. This can be particularly useful in negotiations, strategic planning, or when discussing potential future developments.

Common error

Avoid using "left the possibility" when you actually mean something is probable or highly likely. This phrase suggests uncertainty, so ensure your word choice aligns with the true level of contingency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "left the possibility" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase. It indicates that a subject has not eliminated a particular option or outcome. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, indicating the existence of options or outcomes that are open for consideration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "left the possibility" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that an option or outcome remains open for consideration. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While the phrase is appropriate for expressing uncertainty, avoid using it when a situation is highly probable. Alternatives such as "kept the option open" or "maintained the chance" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to consider the level of contingency when choosing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kept the option open

Emphasizes a deliberate choice to maintain an available option.

maintained the chance

Highlights preserving an opportunity or likelihood.

allowed for the potential

Focuses on permitting the existence of a future outcome.

did not rule out the prospect

Stresses that a particular outcome was not explicitly rejected.

left the door open

Suggests that future engagement or acceptance remains viable.

permitted the scope

Highlights the act of making something permissible or acceptable.

refrained from closing the door

Emphasizes the conscious choice not to eliminate an option.

kept the alternative viable

Focuses on maintaining an alternative course of action as practical.

did not eliminate the option

Highlights the preservation of a choice without necessarily endorsing it.

allowed the opportunity to remain

Focuses on permitting an opportunity to continue existing.

FAQs

How can I use "left the possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "left the possibility" to indicate that a particular outcome or action remains an option. For instance, "The contract negotiations were difficult, but both parties "left the possibility" of future collaboration open."

What are some alternatives to "left the possibility"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "kept the option open", "maintained the chance", or "allowed for the potential" as alternatives to "left the possibility".

Is it better to say "left the possibility open" or "left open the possibility"?

"Left the possibility open" is the more common and natural phrasing. "Left open the possibility" is grammatically correct but less frequently used and may sound slightly awkward.

What does "leaving the possibility open" imply?

"Leaving the possibility open" implies that a specific outcome or action has not been ruled out and remains a viable option, even if it is not the most likely or preferred one.