smaller possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smaller possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or chance of an event occurring, particularly in a comparative context. Example: "Given the current circumstances, there is a smaller possibility of success than we initially anticipated."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

To concentrate on this country alone, without the Situationists, there would have been no Sex Pistols, with all that entails, a distinctly smaller possibility of Iain Sinclair- or Will Self-ian psychogeographical dérives, and a whole tranche of associated cultural inspiration would have gone missing.

The Guardian - Books

As we know, a smaller possibility degree means a lower reliability of the interval constraint.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

In this way, a better optimal solution can be obtained with a smaller possibility degree of the constraint, However, a smaller possibility degree implies a smaller reliability of the uncertain constraint.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Since the group is composed by trustworthy peers, there is smaller possibility the trustworthy peers might be faulty.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

There is smaller possibility the member peers who play a role of relay peer might be faulty.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Robinson speculates that there is a "solid possibility of finding fossil traces of life and a smaller possibility of finding existing life, under the surface" of Mars.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Maybe it's a small chance, a small possibility.

The New York Times

"Nowadays, that's a very, very small possibility," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

That worst-case scenario, as industry officials refer to it, is a small possibility.

The New York Times

There's always the (small?) possibility of a statement from the Monetary Policy Committee.

The Guardian - Business

In late 2007, the Writers Guild of America went on strike, and the small possibility of parts dried up.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "smaller possibility", ensure it's followed by an 'of' phrase to clarify what the possibility pertains to. For example: "There is a smaller possibility of rain tomorrow".

Common error

Avoid using "smaller possibility" when intending to convey impossibility. This phrase indicates a reduced likelihood, not an absence of any chance at all. If something is impossible, use stronger language such as "no chance" or "impossible".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smaller possibility" functions as a noun phrase modified by a comparative adjective ("smaller"). It identifies a reduced likelihood or chance of a particular event occurring. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smaller possibility" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to indicate a reduced likelihood or chance of something occurring. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, this phrase serves to convey a decrease in probability when compared to a previous expectation. For alternative phrasing, consider "lower probability" or "reduced chance". When using "smaller possibility", remember to follow it with 'of' to clarify its meaning, and avoid using it when referring to complete impossibility. Be aware that "smaller possibility" is more formal than "less likely".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower probability

Emphasizes the statistical likelihood of an event occurring less frequently.

reduced chance

Highlights a decrease in the likelihood of a specific outcome.

less likely outcome

Focuses on the diminished probability of a particular result.

diminished likelihood

Stresses a weakened probability of something happening.

slight chance

Indicates a very small possibility.

remote possibility

Suggests that the event is unlikely to occur.

decreased prospect

Highlights a decline in the anticipation of a potential event.

narrow margin

Implies a tight range where the possibility is limited.

limited scope

Indicates that the extent of possibility is restricted.

faint hope

Indicates a minimal degree of optimism.

FAQs

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

Use "smaller possibility" to indicate a reduced chance of something happening. For instance, "Due to the improved safety measures, there's a "smaller possibility" of accidents occurring".

What's a good alternative to "smaller possibility"?

Alternatives include "less likely", "reduced chance", or "lower probability". The best choice depends on the specific context of your sentence. For example, in scientific contexts, "lower probability" may be preferable.

Is it more formal to say "smaller possibility" or "less likely"?

"Less likely" is generally considered more informal than "smaller possibility". In formal writing, "smaller possibility" or "reduced likelihood" might be more appropriate. Also consider using something like "lower probability".

What is the difference between "small possibility" and "smaller possibility"?

"Small possibility" indicates a low likelihood, while "smaller possibility" implies a comparison to a previous or expected likelihood. For instance, "There was a small possibility of success", versus "After the changes, there's a "smaller possibility" of failure".