slim possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"slim possibility" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate something that may be possible but much less likely than other scenarios. For example, "There is a slim possibility that I'll receive a promotion this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

The outcome was frustratingly incremental, but it keeps alive the slim possibility of a diplomatic solution.

The New York Times

We had a very slim possibility of surviving, and we did and here we are".

The New York Times - Sports

If the clinics focus on the slim possibility of success, then so do the women themselves.

The Guardian - Books

But that was (and remains) a threat; a slim possibility, should geopolitics spiral out of control.

The Guardian

Scientists here said there was a slim possibility that Ranger-4 would hit the moon Thursday morning.

The New York Times

Small fires were still burning, though firefighters said there was a slim possibility falling debris could have protected some artworks.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

But let's peer into the crystal ball and consider a series of admittedly slim possibilities.

The Guardian - Opinion

The prospect of any response was slim; the possibility of a sustained remission even more dismal.

The New York Times - Books

But for now, he still tries to cling to the slim mathematical possibility that the team can make the playoffs.

The New York Times - Sports

If neither party can make the necessary alliances to get a majority, there is a slim third possibility: a government led by a regional, caste-based or conceivably even Communist party, with "outside" support from one of the two national parties.

The Economist

Retailers, meanwhile, see slim merchandising possibilities for "Up".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slim possibility" when you want to acknowledge that something could happen, but it's very unlikely. This manages expectations and conveys a realistic assessment of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "slim possibility" when the event is actually impossible or virtually non-existent. Choose stronger phrases like "no chance" or "unthinkable" to more accurately represent the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slim possibility" functions as a noun phrase, where "slim" modifies "possibility". It expresses a low degree of likelihood or probability. Ludwig examples confirm its usage in describing improbable outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slim possibility" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that indicates a low likelihood of something occurring. As Ludwig confirms, it is primarily used in news, science, and formal business contexts to convey uncertainty and manage expectations. While various synonyms like "remote chance" or "slight chance" exist, "slim possibility" offers a balanced tone suitable for many situations. Remember to use it when acknowledging a potential outcome that is improbable but not impossible, and avoid overstating the likelihood of events that are virtually certain to occur. Based on the linguistic analysis, this phrase conveys uncertainty and cautious optimism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thin chance

Similar to "slim possibility", stressing the frailty of the chance.

unlikely event

Directly states the low probability of the occurrence.

slight chance

Indicates a small degree of probability.

long shot

Implies that success is improbable but not impossible.

remote chance

Emphasizes the unlikelihood and distance of the possibility.

faint hope

Emphasizes the weakness and uncertainty of the hope.

minimal prospect

Focuses on the limited outlook or expectation.

outside chance

Suggests a chance that is not immediately apparent or likely.

theoretical possibility

Indicates a possibility that exists more in theory than in practice.

rare opportunity

Highlights the infrequency and scarcity of the chance.

FAQs

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

You can use "slim possibility" to acknowledge that something might happen, but it's not very likely. For example, "There is a slim possibility that the game will be canceled due to rain."

What can I say instead of "slim possibility"?

You can use alternatives like "remote chance", "slight chance", or "minimal prospect" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "slim possibility" or "slight possibility"?

Both "slim possibility" and "slight possibility" are correct and interchangeable. They both mean there's a small chance of something happening.

What's the difference between "slim possibility" and "strong possibility"?

"Slim possibility" indicates a low chance of something occurring, while "strong possibility" suggests a high chance. They are antonyms and represent opposite ends of the probability spectrum.