minimize the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minimize the possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you are trying to reduce the likelihood of something happening. For example, "I'm taking precautions to minimize the possibility of any issues arising with this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"These sorts of reforms aren't designed to eliminate corruption but to minimize the possibility of corruption".

The New York Times

"They scan the herd and minimize the possibility of damage to themselves," he said.

The New York Times - Science

To minimize the possibility of new interactions being formed, interacting residues are usually replaced with Ala33.

Nature

By later verifying the codes online, they could help minimize the possibility of election fraud.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I do everything the experts recommend to minimize the possibility of having something stolen when I check a bag.

The New York Times

One of the requirements is a waiting period, to minimize the possibility that public coverage will displace private insurance.

The New York Times

The transponders' main purpose, he said, is to help minimize the possibility of collision.

The New York Times

By proposing that countries move to freely floating rates, Mr. Sachs hopes to minimize the possibility of sudden currency collapses.

The New York Times

Completing Step 2 (see above) well in advance will minimize the possibility of delays in accessing the Commencement ticketing system.

Columbia University

Careful titration of the alfentanil maintenance infusion is recommended to minimize the possibility of postoperative respiratory depression.

Stanford University

However, we describe a technique that may minimize the possibility of cutaneous numbness.

International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "minimize the possibility", ensure that the context clearly indicates what actions are being taken to reduce the likelihood of the specified outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "minimize the possibility" when the action completely eliminates the chance of something happening. Instead, use phrases that accurately reflect the degree of risk reduction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minimize the possibility" functions as a purpose connector, linking an action with its intended outcome of reducing the likelihood of a specific event. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates proactive steps taken to lessen a chance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

55%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "minimize the possibility" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that connects an action to its purpose of reducing the chance of something occurring. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is useful to express intent to reduce the likelihood of a particular event. It's most common in scientific and news contexts, holding a neutral register appropriate for diverse writing styles. Remember to use this phrase when discussing preventative actions, and be specific about the outcome you are trying to avoid.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minimize the probability

Replaces "possibility" with the more statistical term "probability".

reduce the possibility

A direct synonym, focusing on lessening the probability.

minimize the likelihood

Uses a more formal term, "likelihood", for probability.

minimize the chance

Uses "chance" as a more informal synonym for "possibility".

shrink the possibility

Emphasizes a reduction in size or scope of the chance.

alleviate the possibility

Suggests making the potential problem less severe or intense.

minimize the risk

Emphasizes the potential negative consequence, shifting focus from chance.

minimize the potential

Shifts focus to lessening inherent capacity for something to occur.

minimize the availability

Focuses on reducing access or opportunity rather than probability.

minimize the scope

Targets limiting the extent or range of what's possible.

FAQs

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

You can use "minimize the possibility" to describe actions taken to reduce the likelihood of an event. For example, "Stringent controls were adopted to minimize the possibility of contamination."

What are some alternatives to "minimize the possibility"?

Some alternatives include "reduce the possibility", "minimize the chance", or "shrink the possibility". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it better to say "minimize the possibility" or "reduce the possibility"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Minimize the possibility" might suggest a more comprehensive effort to lessen the chance, while "reduce the possibility" is a more general term.

What does it mean to "minimize the possibility" of something?

To "minimize the possibility" of something means to take actions or precautions to make it less likely to happen. It suggests an active effort to lessen the chances of a particular outcome.