terrible possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "terrible possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or outcome that is highly undesirable or alarming. Example: "The terrible possibility of losing everything we worked for kept us awake at night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The terrible possibility of moving backward in our evolution as a species seems possible to many observers.

Huffington Post

Terrible possibility is the daily grist of the intelligence division, which has in fact broken up terrorist plots.

The New York Times

A terrible possibility dawns on him and he sees the shape of the burden he will carry through life.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Kelly and Mr. Bloomberg live with an awareness of the terrible possibility that most of us long ago suppressed.

The New York Times

All three of Ms Seiffert's stories, but particularly this last, circle the terrible possibility that for some evildoing there can be no atonement.The collaborator in Belarus, after 17 years in a Russian labour camp, can still say: "I think there is no punishment for what I did".

The Economist

And then in that moment... it was a moment of the most terrible possibility realized.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Professor Bayoumi rides subways and elevators and understands terrible possibilities.

The New York Times

GREAT promises -- and terrible possibilities -- attend the formation of an American-led coalition against terrorism.

The New York Times

She lay stationary, detached from her surroundings and unable to move as her mind flew through the terrible possibilities.

Independent

Since the disappearance of flight MH370, pilots have been under suspicion – and the deliberate crashing of a Germanwings plane by its co-pilot in 2015 has demonstrated the terrible possibilities, which airline bosses at Lufthansa admitted they could take no real measures to avert.

The Guardian

The American commentator Thomas Friedman, a man who generally leans well toward the Israeli side, once expressed the terrible possibilities of the future by envisaging a suicide bomber with a nuclear bomb in his backpack walking into Haifa or some other Israeli city.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "terrible possibility", clearly articulate the specific negative outcome you are referring to. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "terrible possibility" excessively in contexts where it amplifies fear without providing substantial information. Focus on balanced reporting and factual analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terrible possibility" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "terrible" modifies the noun "possibility". It describes a potential event or situation that is highly undesirable. Examples from Ludwig show its use in news and media to highlight potential threats and negative outcomes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "terrible possibility" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, effectively conveying a sense of alarm or concern about a potential negative outcome. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it functions as a noun phrase, most frequently appearing in News & Media contexts. While not exceedingly common, its usage is appropriate across a range of registers. To enhance clarity, always specify the exact negative outcome when employing this phrase. Common errors include overuse in sensationalist writing. Alternatives like "dreadful likelihood" or "awful prospect" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. In summary, "terrible possibility" is a valuable tool for highlighting risks and urging consideration of potential negative consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dreadful likelihood

Emphasizes the high probability of a negative event.

horrific potential

Highlights the capacity for something extremely unpleasant to occur.

awful prospect

Focuses on the anticipation of something very unpleasant.

grim outlook

Stresses a pessimistic view of the future.

dire threat

Underscores the seriousness and danger of a potential outcome.

bleak scenario

Paints a picture of a hopeless or unfavorable situation.

catastrophic risk

Highlights the potential for a disastrous outcome.

frightening prospect

Emphasizes the fear-inducing nature of a future event.

unpleasant contingency

Focuses on a possible but undesirable event.

nightmarish eventuality

Highlights the horrifying nature of a potential outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "terrible possibility" to describe a highly undesirable or alarming situation or outcome. For example: "The "terrible possibility" of losing everything kept us awake at night."

What are some alternatives to "terrible possibility"?

Alternatives include "dreadful likelihood", "awful prospect", or "dire threat", depending on the context.

Is "terrible possibility" a formal or informal phrase?

"Terrible possibility" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though its impact is strongest when used judiciously in serious discussions.

What's the difference between "terrible possibility" and "bad possibility"?

"Terrible possibility" conveys a greater degree of severity and alarm than "bad possibility", implying a more significant and potentially devastating outcome.