not normally possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not normally possible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe situations or actions that typically cannot occur under usual circumstances. Example: "Due to the current regulations, it is not normally possible to hold large gatherings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Extending their application beyond this range is not normally possible and can lead to erroneous results.

Petroleum Science

So, it is not normally possible to fully simulate the low frequency end of the turbulence spectrum.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

These FPIs requiring large-aperture etalons to measure weak airglow and auroral emissions become very expensive, and the added expense of the instrumentation means that multi-site observation of the thermosphere winds and temperatures is not normally possible.

Earth, Planets and Space

Jaci Stephen of the Daily Mail said that Phoebe appeared to be melting Jacqui's heart which was "something not normally possible without resorting to use of a blowtorch".

Wikipedia

The capture of all surviving offspring produced over sequential reproductive events (not normally possible for free-living populations due to dispersal and predation events), further strengthens our conclusions.

BMC Biology

Despite this caveat, a meta-analysis has shown that PST and QST estimates do not differ systematically (Leinonen et al. 2008), and PST still provides one of the few options available for studying phenotypic divergence in natural populations in the wild, when common garden experiments are not normally possible (Keller and Taylor 2008).

Evolutionary Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This includes things like click through rate, location/time, and source media, thus bringing a degree of accountability to print campaigns that isn't normally possible, helping brands prioritise their marketing budgets.

TechCrunch

The Atlas is a Bluetooth controller that worked with the company's Arena software to provide support for multiple controller input on the same device, meaning you could connect up to four players locally on a single Android smartphone or tablet connected to a TV, which isn't normally possible.

TechCrunch

A large-scale programme makes possible reforms that alone would not normally be possible.

The Guardian

One of the main activities of shamanism, which is still practiced today, is the exorcism of evil spirits; this can often involve trance dances in which the shaman performs acrobatics, juggling, or vigorous dancing for long periods, demanding a facility and stamina that seemingly would not normally be possible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Making polymers into nanocomposites with the addition of appropriate nanofillers has been shown to be an effective way to obtain a multitude of enhanced properties and even extend to multi-functionalities not normally considered possible for polymeric materials.

Nanoscale Res Lett

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing limitations or constraints, use "not normally possible" to acknowledge that exceptions might exist, but are uncommon. This adds nuance to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "not normally possible" when a situation is absolutely impossible. It's best suited for scenarios that are generally restricted, rather than universally prohibited.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not normally possible" functions as an adverbial modifier, describing the conditions under which an action or outcome can occur. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates a restriction or limitation, suggesting that something is unusual or uncommon.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not normally possible" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to indicate that something is typically not feasible or achievable under ordinary circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness for conveying limitations or restrictions. While it appears across various domains like science, news and wiki, it's crucial to avoid using it when describing situations that are absolutely impossible. Instead, opt for more precise language when describing constraints. Alternatives such as "usually not feasible" or "generally not achievable" can provide similar meaning while adjusting the level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

usually not feasible

Replaces "normally" with "usually" and "possible" with "feasible", focusing on practicality.

generally not achievable

Substitutes "normally" with "generally" and "possible" with "achievable", emphasizing attainability.

typically unachievable

Combines "typically" and "unachievable" for a direct statement about common outcomes.

rarely attainable

Highlights the infrequency of achieving something using "rarely" and "attainable".

not ordinarily feasible

Uses "ordinarily" and "feasible" to suggest something is not regularly practical.

uncommonly viable

Employs "uncommonly" and "viable" to express something's unusual workability.

not habitually obtainable

Replaces "normally" with "habitually" and "possible" with "obtainable", stressing customary access.

atypically achievable

Uses "atypically" and "achievable" to underscore the deviation from typical results.

not usually within reach

Expresses that something is not commonly accessible or obtainable.

seldom feasible

Highlights that something happens only a few times by using "seldom" and "feasible".

FAQs

What does "not normally possible" mean?

The phrase "not normally possible" means something is typically not feasible or achievable under ordinary circumstances, but exceptions might exist. It suggests a limitation rather than an absolute impossibility.

When is it appropriate to use "not normally possible" in a sentence?

Use "not normally possible" when you want to express that something is unlikely or uncommon, but not entirely out of the question. It adds a degree of nuance compared to saying something is "impossible".

Are there formal alternatives to "not normally possible"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "usually not feasible" or "generally not achievable". These options maintain a professional tone while conveying a similar meaning.

How does "not normally possible" differ from "not technically possible"?

"Not technically possible" indicates a constraint based on current technological capabilities. "Not normally possible", on the other hand, suggests a limitation based on typical conditions, procedures, or circumstances. The former focuses on technology, while the latter focuses on general practicality.