possibly true

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possibly true" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty about the truth of a statement or idea. Example: "The theory proposed by the scientist is possibly true, but further research is needed to confirm it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Frequency results are presented with 'False' and 'Possibly False' categories combined, and 'True' and 'Possibly True' categories combined.

BMJ Open

What is it, then, for such a singular proposition to be possible but not possibly true?

SEP

But then the proposition that Socrates does not exist would appear to be possible without being possibly true.

SEP

The conclusion relies on a form of modal axiom S5, which states that if something is possibly true, then its possibility is necessary (it is possibly true in all worlds).

Wikipedia

Unlike the examples from Pollock and Buridan, however, we cannot understand such possibility without possible truth in terms of expressing a possibly true proposition while not being possibly true itself.

SEP

As we've seen, possibilists believe that there are singular possibilities (i.e., singular propositions that are possibly true) about things that don't actually exist, viz., possibilities involving mere possibilia.

SEP

This is quite possibly true.

The New York Times

Appalling, but possibly true.

The Guardian - Books

Amusing, and quite possibly true.

The Guardian - Sport

A beautiful notion, and possibly true.

The New York Times

Strange and possibly true 1.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When responding to a statement with "possibly true", follow up with reasons for your uncertainty. This shows engagement and encourages further discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "possibly true" when you are actually sure about something. If you have strong evidence, use stronger affirmative language like "probably true" or "certainly true".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possibly true" functions as an adjective phrase used to qualify a statement or proposition. It indicates a degree of uncertainty, suggesting that the statement could align with reality but lacks definitive proof. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

37%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "possibly true" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing uncertainty about the validity of a statement. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase functions as an adjective phrase, often seen in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When writing, it's best practice to provide supporting context for your uncertainty and avoid using it when stronger affirmative language is warranted. Consider alternatives like "potentially true" or "conceivably true" for slight variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conceivably true

Emphasizes the possibility of being true, highlighting the capacity to be imagined or believed.

potentially true

Focuses on the inherent possibility of being true in the future or under certain conditions.

feasibly true

Stresses the practical possibility of being true, often related to whether something is realistically achievable.

plausibly true

Highlights the apparent truthfulness based on initial assessment or available information.

arguably true

Suggests that there is a case to be made for it being true, open to debate.

ostensibly true

Indicates that it appears to be true but might not be upon closer inspection.

reportedly true

Signifies that the truth is based on reports or hearsay, not necessarily verified.

allegedly true

Implies a truth that is asserted without proof and may be under investigation or dispute.

theoretically true

Points to the possibility of being true within a particular theory or framework.

nominally true

Indicates a truth in name or form only, potentially lacking in substance or actual fact.

FAQs

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

Use "possibly true" when you want to express that something might be the case, but you aren't entirely sure. For instance, "The rumor about the company merger is "possibly true", but we need confirmation."

What's the difference between "possibly true" and "probably true"?

"Possibly true" suggests a lower level of certainty than "probably true". "Possibly true" indicates something could be the case, while "probably true" indicates it's more likely than not.

Are there situations where it's better to avoid using "possibly true"?

Yes, avoid using "possibly true" when you need to convey a strong sense of conviction or certainty. In legal or critical decision-making contexts, opt for more definitive language unless you genuinely have doubts.

What are some alternative phrases to "possibly true"?

You can use alternatives like "potentially true", "conceivably true", or "plausibly true" to express a similar meaning with slight variations in nuance.