the only possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"the only possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a single option or path of action. For example: "Given the circumstances, the only possibility is for us to move forward with this plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Although this mechanism is certainly possible, it may not be the only possibility for distal delivery.

eLife

Collective leadership was the only possibility.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That's not the only possibility, though.

The New York Times - Food

That becomes the only possibility.

Harvard Business Review

Shrimp is not the only possibility here.

The New York Times - Food

But luck is not the only possibility.

The New York Times - Science

For Charlotte, marrying Collins is the only possibility.

The New Yorker

The only possibility for the alleviation of suffering.

The Guardian

"In other words, West Nile is not the only possibility".

The New York Times

In Rockaby, meanwhile, death offers the only possibility of mercy.

The Guardian

The only possibility, I think, is to make it popular.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the only possibility" when you want to emphasize that there is no other option or alternative available.

Common error

Avoid using "the only possibility" when multiple potential solutions exist; consider alternatives like "one potential solution" or "a possible option" to maintain accuracy and nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only possibility" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and widely used. It identifies a singular course of action, a solution, or a potential outcome when no other options exist.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only possibility" serves as a noun phrase used to denote the singular existing option in a particular scenario. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While versatile, careful consideration of available alternatives and a clear understanding of intended meaning is needed to ensure precision. Related phrases such as "the sole option" or "the singular chance" can offer subtle shifts in meaning and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sole option

Replaces "possibility" with "option", emphasizing choice rather than potential outcome.

the only alternative

Substitutes "possibility" with "alternative", highlighting the lack of other choices.

the singular chance

Replaces "possibility" with "chance", stressing the uniqueness and perhaps the uncertainty of the opportunity.

the one recourse

Uses "recourse" instead of "possibility", indicating a source of help or action in a difficult situation.

the solitary route

Replaces "possibility" with "route", suggesting a path or course of action.

the exclusive avenue

Uses "avenue" in place of "possibility", implying a way or method for achieving something.

the last resort

Indicates that this option is only considered after all others have failed.

the only way out

Specifically suggests a method for escaping a difficult situation.

the definitive answer

Implies that this option will solve the problem or provide the necessary solution.

the ultimate solution

Suggests that this option is the best or most effective way to address the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "the only possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "the only possibility" to indicate a single available option, as in "Given the circumstances, "the only possibility" is to proceed with caution."

What are some alternatives to saying "the only possibility"?

Instead of "the only possibility", consider using phrases like "the sole option", "the only alternative", or "the singular chance" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it more appropriate to say "the only possibility" or "a possibility"?

"The only possibility" implies there is just one option, while "a possibility" suggests there are multiple potential outcomes or solutions. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the context.

What's the difference between "the only possibility" and "the last resort"?

"The only possibility" indicates the single available option, while "the last resort" suggests an option considered only after all others have failed.