this might happen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this might happen" is grammatically correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are discussing a possibility or potential outcome. For example: "If we do not take precautions, this might happen and we could be in a lot of trouble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We thought this might happen," they said.

The New York Times

She knew this might happen.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We thought this might happen".

The Guardian

This might happen in Afghanistan".

The Guardian - Opinion

In Spain, this might happen.

The Guardian - Opinion

This might happen somewhat less often.

The Economist

We had an idea this might happen.

The New York Times - Sports

When this might happen is unclear.

The New York Times

This might happen if a bank lowered your limit.

The New York Times

Whether and when this might happen, though, is uncertain.

The Economist

Alzner said he had a premonition that this might happen.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this might happen" to introduce a potential outcome or contingency, particularly when outlining future plans or scenarios. It's useful for setting expectations or discussing risks.

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse in formal contexts can make your writing sound speculative. Instead, use stronger verbs or more precise language to convey certainty or likelihood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this might happen" serves as a modal expression of possibility or potential occurrence. Ludwig confirms this usage across numerous examples, indicating its function as a way to introduce uncertainty or contingency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this might happen" is a versatile phrase used to express a potential outcome or contingency. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various domains, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, remember to consider the context and audience when choosing between it and more formal alternatives. Keep in mind overuse in academic writing can make you sound speculative, so it is better to enrich your vocabulary with more precise language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this could occur

Replaces 'might' with 'could', another modal verb indicating possibility, with a slightly more formal tone.

this is a possibility

Transforms the phrase into a statement about the existence of a possibility, rather than a prediction.

this is potentially the case

Introduces a conditional tone, emphasizing the dependence of the outcome on certain conditions.

it is conceivable that this will occur

Uses more formal language to express the possibility of something happening.

this is a probable outcome

Suggests that the event is likely to happen, indicating a higher degree of certainty than "might" implies.

this is a chance

Focuses on the element of chance or risk associated with the event.

this is not out of the question

Expresses that something is possible, though perhaps not likely, using a double negative.

there's a chance of this occurring

Highlights the existence of a chance for the event to take place, framing it as a separate entity.

this is within the realm of possibility

Emphasizes that the event is theoretically possible, even if unlikely in practice.

this remains a feasible option

Implies that the event is not only possible but also practical and achievable.

FAQs

How can I use "this might happen" in a sentence?

Use "this might happen" to introduce a potential outcome or contingency. For example, "If we don't address the issue, "this might happen" and cause further complications".

What are some alternatives to "this might happen"?

Alternatives include phrases like "this could occur", "this is a possibility", or "it is conceivable that this will occur", depending on the level of formality and certainty you want to convey.

Is "this might happen" formal or informal?

The phrase "this might happen" is generally considered neutral in tone. While it's suitable for most everyday conversations, more formal language might be preferred in academic or business writing. Consider alternatives such as "this is a probable outcome" in formal contexts.

What's the difference between "this might happen" and "this will happen"?

"This might happen" expresses a possibility, suggesting the outcome is uncertain. In contrast, "this will happen" expresses a prediction or certainty about the outcome.