possible reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible reason" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a potential explanation for something. For example, "The power outage could have been caused by a broken transformer, a possible reason for the electricity to stop flowing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Fear seems a possible reason.

The Economist

One possible reason?

The Washington Post

A possible reason was proposed.

Electrochimica Acta

One possible reason: higher unemployment.

The Guardian - Money

Geopolitical machinations offer one possible reason.

The Economist

Holder mentioned one possible reason.

The New Yorker

Another possible reason for rejection is age.

The New York Times

One possible reason: no central charismatic figure.

The New York Times

Richard Florida found one possible reason why.

The New York Times

But tax experts offer one possible reason.

The New York Times

Probably, and that paradox points to one possible reason.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "possible reason", acknowledge its tentative nature with phrases like "one possible reason could be" or "a possible explanation is". This avoids presenting speculation as fact.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "possible reason" as the definitive cause without sufficient evidence. Using hedging language maintains objectivity and accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possible reason" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or an appositive. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, serving to introduce a potential explanation or cause for a given situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possible reason" is a versatile noun phrase used to introduce a potential explanation or cause for an event or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various domains, including news, science, and business. Its frequency of usage is "very common", and it maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Remember to use hedging language when presenting a "possible reason" to avoid overstating its certainty. Alternatives include "potential explanation" and "potential cause", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential explanation

Focuses more on the explanatory aspect rather than the causal aspect.

potential cause

Emphasizes the causal relationship more directly.

plausible explanation

Highlights the believability or credibility of the reason.

feasible cause

Indicates that the reason is practical and realistic.

conceivable explanation

Suggests the reason is within the realm of possibility.

one explanation could be

Introduces the explanation more tentatively.

a potential factor

Broader term, suggesting a contributing element rather than a definite reason.

a contributing factor

Highlights the contributory aspect of the reason.

one possibility is

Presents the reason as one of several options.

a hypothetical cause

Indicates the reason is speculative or theoretical.

FAQs

How do I use "possible reason" in a sentence?

You can use "possible reason" to introduce a potential explanation for an event or situation. For example, "A broken water pipe is a "possible reason" for the flooding".

What's the difference between "possible reason" and "probable cause"?

"Possible reason" suggests a potential explanation, while "probable cause" implies a higher degree of certainty and is often used in legal contexts. The "probable cause" is more likely than a "possible reason".

Are there alternatives to using the phrase "possible reason"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use phrases like "potential explanation", "potential cause", or "plausible explanation".

When should I use "possible reason" instead of "definite reason"?

Use "possible reason" when you are speculating or hypothesizing about a cause. Use "definite reason" when you have solid evidence or proof of the cause.