quite possible

USAGE SUMMARY

"quite possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate something is somewhat likely to happen or occur. For example, "It's quite possible that we will get a good return on our investment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Quite possible.

The New York Times - Sports

"So it's quite possible.

The New York Times

It's quite possible.

The New York Times

That is quite possible.

The New York Times

(Quite possible, I'm sure).

The Guardian - Books

Other coalitions are quite possible.

The Economist

"It's quite possible," he said.

The New York Times

"It's quite possible that he might.

The New York Times

I suspect it is quite possible.

The Economist

Suddenly, another Greek miracle seemed quite possible.

The New York Times

SPEER: Yes, that is quite possible.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quite possible" to express a moderate level of likelihood, indicating something is more than just conceivable but not necessarily highly probable.

Common error

Avoid using "quite possible" when the situation suggests a high degree of certainty. Opt for stronger phrases like "very likely" or "almost certain" if the evidence strongly supports the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite possible" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying an implied or stated noun phrase. It expresses a degree of possibility, indicating that something is more than just conceivable but not necessarily highly probable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

26%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite possible" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to express a moderate degree of likelihood. It functions as an adjectival phrase and is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific writing. According to Ludwig AI, its primary function is to acknowledge a potential outcome without strong commitment. While "quite possible" is versatile, it's important not to use it when stronger expressions of certainty are warranted. Consider alternatives such as "very likely" or "highly probable" when the evidence strongly supports a particular outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

very likely

Emphasizes a higher degree of probability compared to "quite possible".

highly probable

Presents a more formal and statistically inclined assessment of likelihood.

easily could happen

Conveys a sense of facility or lack of impediment to the occurrence.

well within the realm of possibility

Indicates something is realistic and could occur given the circumstances.

not out of the question

Suggests acceptance of the possibility, though not necessarily predicting it.

conceivable

Highlights that something can be imagined or mentally grasped as possible.

within the bounds of probability

Frames the situation as staying within calculable chances.

plausible

Indicates believability and likelihood based on the available evidence or assumptions.

a distinct possibility

Implies the possibility is clear and definable, rather than vague or remote.

reasonably likely

Suggests that based on given conditions there are reasonable or logical indications that the condition will be met.

FAQs

How can I use "quite possible" in a sentence?

You can use "quite possible" to indicate something is somewhat likely. For example, "It's "quite possible" that the meeting will be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances."

What alternatives can I use instead of "quite possible"?

You can use alternatives like "very likely", "highly probable", or "conceivable" depending on the context.

Is "quite possible" formal or informal?

"Quite possible" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality allows for versatile usage across various communication styles.

What's the difference between "quite possible" and "possible"?

"Quite possible" implies a higher degree of likelihood compared to simply "possible". While "possible" suggests something could happen, "quite possible" indicates a reasonable chance of it occurring.