scope of possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scope of possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that may be possible in a certain context, depending on the circumstances. For example, "Given the current economic turmoil, the scope of possibility for growth in the hospitality industry is limited."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It can be an amazing feeling – the scope of possibility.

The Guardian

That we can simultaneously appreciate and condemn Friedan for helping to light a fire under a social movement that exponentially expanded the scope of possibility for women is the tension at the heart of Coontz's smart and lively meditation.

The New York Times - Books

That same restaurant provided the inspiration for the interiors of the Boom Boom Room, circular nooks by windows and sunken bars and the sense that the glass walls, only functionally concerned with enclosure and safety, are more saliently symbols of an illusion central to the mythology of this city, that the scope of possibility here is limitless.

The New York Times

Simultaneously, in the context of the play, we also witness the characters build and drop barriers created desperately to defy the warnings that seemed beyond the scope of possibility.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Woman 2's hand hovered over a slice, as though the scope of possibilities might be too much to bear.

The Guardian

In so doing, the participants aim to broaden the scope of possibilities for how Asia can be studied and understood.

University of California, Berkeley

The Falcons' meshing of newfangled training concepts with old-fashioned equipment broadened the scope of possibilities for the way Wire honed himself for the rigors of football.

The New York Times - Sports

His desire to create animal carvings instead of traditional New Mexican Santos figures was an influential step in the development of Southwestern art, offering him and many others, including his grandson, a much broader scope of possibilities with respect to content.

The New York Times

Case study research is mainly narrowed to its "explorative" function, neglecting the scope of possibilities that case study research provides.

Business Research

"Bringing Flash Player to the mass market segment of smartphones and HD video to higher end smartphones with Qualcomm's processors will expand the scope of possibilities on a mobile device".

TechCrunch

The medieval philosopher Scotus and mid-twentieth century philosopher C.A. Campbell both appear to agree with Descartes and Sartre on the lack of direct causal influence on the activity of free choice while allowing that the scope of possibilities for what I might thus will may be more or less constricted.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "scope of possibility", ensure the context clearly defines what possibilities are being considered. Be specific rather than vague.

Common error

Avoid using "scope of possibility" when you can provide concrete examples of potential outcomes or opportunities. Specificity enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scope of possibility" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition or as a subject complement. It describes the extent or range within which something is possible. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scope of possibility" is a noun phrase used to describe the range or extent of potential outcomes or opportunities. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used to refer to something that may be possible in a certain context. It frequently appears in news, science, and academic writing, suggesting a neutral to professional register. While not exceedingly common, it's a useful phrase for clearly articulating potential outcomes and assessing limitations. Remember to provide specific context and avoid overgeneralization when employing the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

range of potential

Focuses on the breadth of untapped capabilities or future prospects.

realm of the possible

Emphasizes the boundaries within which something can occur or be achieved.

spectrum of opportunities

Highlights a variety of chances or openings that exist.

breadth of potentiality

Stresses the comprehensive nature of what could potentially exist or happen.

extent of feasibility

Indicates the degree to which something is practical or achievable.

confines of what's achievable

Highlights the limitations and restrictions on what can be accomplished.

horizon of expectation

Focuses on what is anticipated or foreseen as likely to happen.

sphere of action

Emphasizes the area or scope within which activity or influence can occur.

ambit of capability

Highlights the boundaries of one's skills, knowledge or talents.

prospect of realization

Focuses specifically on the chance that something will come to fruition.

FAQs

How can I use "scope of possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "scope of possibility" to discuss the range of potential outcomes or opportunities within a particular situation. For instance, "The new technology has expanded the "scope of possibility" for medical treatments."

What's a more formal alternative to "scope of possibility"?

A more formal alternative could be "range of potential" or "extent of feasibility", depending on the specific context you're aiming to convey.

How does "scope of possibility" differ from "realm of the possible"?

"Scope of possibility" refers to the extent of what could happen, while "realm of the possible" refers to the general category of things that can happen. The "realm of the possible" is broader.

Is there a difference between "scope of possibility" and "scope of opportunities"?

Yes, "scope of possibility" is broader and includes all potential outcomes, whereas "scope of opportunities" specifically refers to available chances or openings.