of the possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of the possible" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is within the realm of potential or likelihood. Example: "I have considered all of the possible options for our vacation and have narrowed it down to three destinations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What are some of the possible drawbacks?

The New York Times

It is the art of the possible".

The New Yorker

Rugby remains the art of the possible.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's not a secret," Pennington said of the possible switch.

The New York Times - Sports

They sold only about two-thirds of the possible 5.3m.

The Guardian - Business

"It's definitely within the realm of the possible," he says.

The Guardian

Let's look at some of the possible scenarios.

The Guardian

"But it is still really the 'art of the possible'.

The Guardian - Tech

"Politics is 'the art of the possible,' right?

The New York Times - Magazine

"Sex was not even within the realm of the possible.

The New Yorker

The nature and scope of the possible sanctions were unspecified.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is needed, consider stronger synonyms like "feasible" or "achievable" if you want to emphasize practicality over mere possibility.

Common error

Avoid using "of the possible" when you actually mean "of the probable". "Possible" simply means it could happen, while "probable" suggests it's likely to happen. The distinction is crucial for accurate communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of the possible" functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a noun or verb to specify the scope of potentiality or feasibility. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "of the possible" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that highlights the range of potential options or outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, from news reporting to academic discussions. While alternatives like "within the realm of possibility" exist, "of the possible" provides a concise way to express the idea that something is within the scope of what could happen. Be mindful of its distinction from "of the probable" to ensure accuracy in conveying likelihood versus mere potential. The frequency of the expression is considered as "Very common"

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within the realm of possibility

Focuses on the existence of a chance or likelihood, shifting from a general potential to a specific chance.

in the realm of the feasible

Emphasizes practicality and achievability, rather than just potential.

among the potential options

Highlights that the subject is one of several existing possibilities.

within the scope of what's achievable

Concentrates on the boundaries of what can be accomplished.

considering potential outcomes

Centers around the results that might occur, rather than the initial possibility.

regarding conceivable scenarios

Highlights that the possible is an idea or a plan of something that may happen.

looking at viable solutions

Shifts the focus to solutions that are both possible and practical.

thinking about prospective avenues

Highlights the consideration of possible opportunities that may lead to an outcome.

assessing imaginable conditions

Focuses on conditions that can be visualized or conceived.

studying realistic alternatives

Shifts the emphasis to examining choices that are grounded in reality.

FAQs

How can I use "of the possible" in a sentence?

You can use "of the possible" to refer to the range of potential options, outcomes, or solutions in a given situation. For example, "We need to consider all "of the possible" solutions before making a decision."

What are some alternatives to using "of the possible"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "within the realm of possibility", "in the realm of the feasible", or "among the potential options".

Is it correct to say "of the possible solutions" or should it be "of the potential solutions"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different nuances. "Possible" refers to something that could exist or happen, while "potential" refers to something that has the capacity to develop into something. Using "of the possible solutions" indicates a wider range of theoretical solutions, whereas "of the potential solutions" suggests solutions with a higher likelihood of success.

How does "of the possible" differ from "of the probable"?

"Of the possible" refers to any outcome that is not impossible. "Of the probable" refers to an outcome that is likely to occur. Not all possible outcomes are probable, and vice versa.