likely possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "likely possibility" is a valid phrase to use in written English.
You can use it to express the concept of a situation having a greater chance of occurring than other possibilities. For example, "The government has suggested that tax cuts may be a likely possibility in next year's budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But it sounds like that is not the most likely possibility".

Huffington Post

Now it's a more likely possibility.

The New Yorker

But I don't think that's a very likely possibility.

The New York Times - Tech

But there is also a darker, if less likely possibility.

The Economist

Another increasingly likely possibility, they say, is nominating an alternative candidate.

The New York Times

The least likely possibility seems to be that nothing will happen to Chmura.

The New York Times - Sports

This is the least likely possibility, but we thought we would mention it.

The Washington Post

Some diplomats said a more likely possibility was that leftists were responsible.

The Washington Post

There was no supernova in that blue galaxy, leaving a collision as the only likely possibility.

The New York Times - Science

There was the very likely possibility that I would make a colossal fool of myself.

The New York Times

Mr. Kim added, "A more likely possibility is a torpedo attack".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "likely possibility", ensure it's followed by a clear explanation or evidence to support why that possibility is considered likely. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using adverbs that unnecessarily modify "likely possibility". For example, phrases like "very likely possibility" can be redundant, as "likely" already implies a high degree of probability. Consider rephrasing for conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "likely possibility" functions as a noun phrase that modifies a statement or situation, indicating its probability or chance of occurring. Ludwig shows it is commonly used to express that something is more probable than other outcomes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

44%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "likely possibility" is a commonly used phrase to indicate that something has a good chance of occurring. Ludwig's AI confirms that the phrase is valid and offers several examples of its use in reputable sources. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it's important to use the phrase judiciously, providing supporting evidence when possible and avoiding redundancy. Some sources, such as news outlets and scientific publications, favor this phrase, but remember that there are more precise alternatives like "probable chance" or "plausible scenario" available to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probable chance

Changes both adjectives and noun, maintaining similar connotation of probability.

plausible scenario

Replaces "likely" and "possibility" with "plausible" and "scenario", implying believability.

realistic prospect

Substitutes words with ones suggesting a grounded expectation.

distinct likelihood

Replaces "possibility" and adds emphasis with "distinct".

reasonable expectation

Implies the possibility is supported by some facts.

credible potential

Suggests the possibility has a foundation in credibility.

conceivable outcome

Emphasizes that the possibility can be imagined or conceived.

feasible option

Indicates the possibility is practical and achievable.

realistic alternative

Shifts the focus to the practical nature of the possibility as a choice.

expected eventuality

Conveys the sense that the possibility is anticipated or foreseen.

FAQs

How can I use "likely possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "likely possibility" to suggest that something has a good chance of happening. For example, "Given the current economic climate, a recession is a "likely possibility"."

What are some alternatives to "likely possibility"?

Alternatives include phrases like "probable chance", "plausible scenario", or "realistic prospect", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very likely possibility"?

Yes, using "very" before "likely possibility" can be considered redundant, as "likely" already implies a good degree of probability. It's often more concise and effective to simply use ""likely possibility"".

In what contexts is "likely possibility" most appropriate?

"Likely possibility" is suitable in various contexts, including news reports, scientific discussions, and business analyses, where assessing the probability of future events is important. However, consider more specific alternatives if greater precision is needed, for example ""realistic prospect"" may sound better in professional business emails.