precarious possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precarious possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or outcome that is uncertain and potentially unstable or risky. Example: "The precarious possibility of losing funding forced the organization to reconsider its long-term plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Are their heads so far up their assholes that they actually don't understand the fantastically precarious possibility that Obama represents for this country and the world?

Huffington Post

But it's quietly understood that they're there to gently destroy us, and we solemnly trade our damage and loss for the spectacle, and this precarious possibility of beating the odds.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

We lacked information on whether the individuals were in standard jobs or precarious jobs and a possibility of measurement error in occupation at the time of death cannot be ruled out.

BMJ Open

"With its precarious financial position, [bankruptcy] is always a possibility.

Forbes

Precarious jobs are unstable, short-term, offer almost no possibility of promotion or a career, and have lower remuneration and fewer labour rights (holidays, wages, retirement benefits, etc). in comparison with jobs where there is a standard employment contract [ 5- 7].

Human Resources for Health

One of the first big trades he executed on his own behalf was designed to hedge his own wealth against the possibility that the stock market might fall from its precarious height.

The New York Times - Arts

Gary Younge, in The Guardian, also notes that Obama's popularity is precarious, as almost every element in his agenda carries the "very real possibility of failure".

The Guardian

A moment before, having ad-libbed his way into that precarious position, he had said, dryly, "There's a load of possibilities here".

The New York Times - Arts

Massive, precarious.

Independent

Conversation is precarious.

The New Yorker

They are also precarious.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "precarious possibility", ensure that the context clearly conveys both the uncertainty and the potential for negative consequences. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the delicate balance between hope and risk.

Common error

Avoid using "precarious possibility" when the situation primarily involves uncertainty without a significant element of danger or potential harm. Using the phrase in such cases can create unnecessary alarm or misrepresent the true nature of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precarious possibility" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "precarious" modifies the noun "possibility". The adjective emphasizes the unstable or risky nature of the possibility. Ludwig confirms the proper usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "precarious possibility" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a future outcome that is both uncertain and potentially risky. Ludwig's analysis of various sources confirms its validity, though its frequency is relatively rare. The phrase is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, as demonstrated by its presence in news and scientific publications. When using this phrase, be mindful of the potential to overstate the risk and ensure that the context accurately reflects the delicate balance between hope and potential negative consequences. While not extremely common, "precarious possibility" effectively communicates a sense of caution and the need for careful consideration, according to Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

risky prospect

Focuses more on the inherent danger or risk associated with the potential outcome.

uncertain prospect

Emphasizes the lack of certainty or predictability in the future.

tenuous chance

Highlights the slim or weak nature of the likelihood.

fragile hope

Suggests that the potential outcome is easily disrupted or destroyed.

slim opportunity

Focuses on the limited availability or narrow scope of the chance.

dubious outcome

Implies skepticism or doubt about the positive nature of the result.

unstable prospect

Highlights the volatile or fluctuating nature of the potential.

delicate balance

Emphasizes the need for careful management to avoid negative consequences.

vulnerable potential

Indicates that the possibility is susceptible to harm or damage.

hazardous opportunity

Focuses on the dangerous or detrimental consequences of pursuing the opportunity.

FAQs

What does "precarious possibility" mean?

The phrase "precarious possibility" refers to a situation or potential outcome that is uncertain and fraught with risk or danger. It suggests that while something is possible, its stability is questionable and could easily lead to negative consequences.

How can I use "precarious possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "precarious possibility" to describe a situation where success is not guaranteed and failure could have serious repercussions. For example: "The company's survival hinges on the "precarious possibility" of securing a major contract."

What are some synonyms for "precarious possibility"?

Alternatives to "precarious possibility" include "risky prospect", "uncertain outcome", or "tenuous chance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "precarious possibility" a formal or informal phrase?

"Precarious possibility" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it leans slightly towards formal usage due to its descriptive and analytical nature. It's commonly found in news articles, academic papers, and business reports.