limited possibilities

USAGE SUMMARY

'limited possibilities' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a situation where there are not many options or choices available. For example, "Covid-19 has left us with limited possibilities for travel this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The first limitation is the limited possibilities for blinding.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Limited possibilities for double blinding can be a potential limitation to this study.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

A possible explanation of this finding could be the limited possibilities for PCI treatment as well as for fibrinolysis.

BMC Health Services Research

"Limited possibilities, limited hope".

The Guardian - Books

"There's a sense of limited possibilities".

The New York Times

through materials, we have exhausted our limited possibilities.

Columbia University

There are circumstances in which one most cope with limited possibilities for the exercise of imagination.

The New York Times

The sceptical view that limited possibilities of solution are inherent in the problems.

The New Yorker

Proceed down Highway 111 to the town of Niland, a broken-down place of limited possibilities.

The New York Times

On the other hand, limited possibilities also mean creating your own options".

The New York Times - Books

Given that ESS has started in 2012, limited possibilities are present to examine changes over time.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing strategic decisions, use "limited possibilities" to frame constraints realistically and avoid overpromising potential outcomes.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the severity of "limited possibilities". Acknowledge constraints while also exploring creative solutions to overcome them, maintaining a balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limited possibilities" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes a situation where the range of potential actions or outcomes is restricted. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

35%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "limited possibilities" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to express constraints or a lack of options. As Ludwig AI correctly points out, it is versatile and applicable in a variety of contexts, particularly in science, news, and academic writing. While its connotation is generally neutral, it can also prompt consideration of innovative solutions within those constraints. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and the specific nuance you wish to convey, and consider alternatives such as "scarce possibilities" or "constrained opportunities" for a different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited options

A more direct and common substitute, simply stating that choices are restricted.

scarce possibilities

Emphasizes the rarity or infrequency of available options.

scant possibilities

Similar to "scarce possibilities", highlighting a minimal amount or number of options.

reduced alternatives

Highlights the reduced number of alternatives.

constrained opportunities

Focuses on the limited scope or freedom within the available chances.

few prospects

Shifts the focus to the potential future outcomes or chances, rather than the immediate possibilities.

restricted avenues

Emphasizes that the paths or methods to achieve something are limited.

circumscribed choices

Stresses that the set of choices is carefully limited and defined.

narrow scope

Highlights the limited range or extent of what is achievable or available.

finite resources

Focuses on limited resources and opportunities.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "limited possibilities" in a sentence?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "scarce possibilities", "constrained opportunities", or "limited options".

What does "limited possibilities" imply?

It implies that the range of choices, opportunities, or potential outcomes is restricted or not extensive. This could be due to various factors such as resource constraints, situational limitations, or systemic barriers.

Is it better to use "limited possibilities" or "no possibilities"?

The choice depends on the specific context. "Limited possibilities" suggests that some options exist, even if they are few or not ideal. "No possibilities" indicates that there are absolutely no options available. Use the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.

Can "limited possibilities" have a positive connotation?

While generally neutral or slightly negative, "limited possibilities" can sometimes prompt innovation and creativity. Constraints can force one to think outside the box and find unique solutions that might not have been considered otherwise.