possibly require

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possibly require" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something may be needed or necessary, but it is not certain. Example: "The project may possibly require additional funding to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

After repeated and serious journalistic debacles, I am curious as to which New York Times editorial procedures could possibly require tightening and new monitoring efforts.

The New York Times

The Dodgers' situation is the more volatile one, with reports that Frank McCourt, the owner, could run out of cash to meet his payroll by month's end and possibly require a bailout from baseball.

The New York Times - Sports

Conducting without a score, Maazel looked as if he were doing everything anyone could possibly require: beating time and turning to cue instruments with brisk efficiency, with the occasional flamboyant gesture thrown in, but he made little audible impression on the sound being produced.

The Guardian - Music

Achieving asymmetric rates will possibly require some form rate splitting[16] and will not be considered in this paper.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Rather, we find hybrid zones of indistinction that may possibly require new reflection on the porosity or porousness of many traditional conceptions of the blood and tissue economies.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

In later missions, transportation on the planet will possibly require aerial vehicles and finally the realization of a whole transportation infrastructure.

Acta Astronautica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

C. glabrata, on the other hand, appears more specialized in its metabolic requirement, possibly requiring a more stable environment, where these needs are met.

Cellular Microbiology

Bone damage may be extensive, possibly requiring amputation of the affected limb.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Maybe it has to do with it possibly requiring some conversations about some issues that might be sensitive," he added.

The New York Times

They described massive flaws in the villagisation programme, inadequate services and insufficient food, possibly requiring an emergency response.

The Guardian

A default gives the bondholders the right to demand immediate payment, possibly requiring a liquidation of some school assets.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "possibly require", consider the level of certainty you want to convey. If you are more certain, consider using "likely require" or "will require". If you're less sure, stick with "possibly require" to reflect the uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "possibly require" when the context clearly indicates a higher probability of the requirement. Overusing it can dilute the message and make your writing seem less confident. Choose stronger alternatives like "likely require" or "will require" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possibly require" functions as a qualifying verb phrase. It modifies a verb by adding an element of uncertainty or possibility to the action being described. As supported by Ludwig, it indicates a potential, but not definite, need or necessity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possibly require" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that conveys a sense of potential need or necessity. Ludwig AI confirms this, and the phrase is appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in scientific, news, and formal business settings. Although "possibly require" is relatively common, consider stronger or more specific alternatives when the context warrants a more definite statement. Overusing "possibly require" when a stronger term is more appropriate can make your writing seem less confident. Remember, while "possibly require" serves to introduce some uncertainty, avoid the redundancy of using both "may" and "possibly" together.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may necessitate

Indicates a potential need with a slightly stronger emphasis on the potential consequence.

could call for

Suggests a need, often in response to a specific situation or event.

might demand

Implies a strong need or expectation, almost a requirement.

may entail

Focuses on the potential consequences or implications of a decision or action.

might involve

Highlights the potential inclusion of something as part of a process.

could potentially need

Adds extra emphasis on the uncertainty of the need.

may end up needing

Implies that the need will become evident as a process unfolds.

might prove necessary

Focuses on the potential for something to become essential.

may turn out to require

Suggests a need that becomes apparent after a period of observation or development.

could conceivably call for

Indicates a theoretical or imaginable, but not necessarily probable, need.

FAQs

How can I use "possibly require" in a sentence?

You can use "possibly require" to indicate that something might be necessary but is not yet certain. For example, "The new software update may "possibly require" a system restart".

What are some alternatives to "possibly require"?

Alternatives to "possibly require" include "may necessitate", "could call for", or "might demand". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "may possibly require"?

Yes, using "may possibly require" is generally considered redundant because "may" and "possibly" both express uncertainty. It's better to use either "may require" or "possibly require" to avoid repetition.

What is the difference between "possibly require" and "definitely require"?

"Possibly require" indicates that something might be needed, whereas "definitely require" indicates a certain need. For example, "This task may "possibly require" additional training", versus "This task "definitely require" additional training".