will only be possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "will only be possible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something can happen or be achieved under specific conditions or circumstances. Example: "The project will only be possible if we secure the necessary funding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Instead maintenance will only be possible in good weather.

The Economist

That will only be possible if the economy remains strong.

The Economist

A viable Palestinian state will only be possible in the context of a secure Jewish state.

The New York Times

Individual morality will only be possible when the collective morality of communism comes.

The Guardian

This will only be possible if wealth is shared and income inequality is addressed.

The Guardian

It will only be possible if both sides delicately confront the ghosts of history.

The Guardian - Opinion

This will only be possible if they can be commercial, competitive and make a profit.

The Guardian

This draconian legislation will only be possible if the Human Rights Act is repealed.

Independent

But such a grand and generous ambition will only be possible if Britain is fully engaged in the European project.

The Guardian - Opinion

A global deal will only be possible if Britain plays its part, leading the way with other developed countries.

The Guardian

This will only be possible through a combination of measures and will take some time to become evident.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "will only be possible", ensure that the condition you specify is clear and directly related to the outcome. Ambiguity can weaken the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "will only be possible" when other options or pathways exist. This phrase implies exclusivity, so be sure that no other viable means exist to achieve the desired outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "will only be possible" functions as a modal expression, indicating that a certain outcome or event is contingent upon specific preconditions. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its common usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "will only be possible" is a versatile phrase used to express that a future outcome is conditional on certain prerequisites. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in diverse contexts, notably News & Media and Science. While suitable for neutral and formal registers, it is crucial to use it accurately, ensuring the specified condition is both necessary and explicitly linked to the outcome. Remember to avoid redundancy and consider alternative expressions based on the desired level of formality. By understanding the function, purpose, and usage patterns of "will only be possible", you can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can only happen if

Replaces "will be possible" with "can happen", emphasizing the potential for occurrence under specific conditions.

is solely achievable when

Substitutes "will only be possible" with a more formal and emphatic phrasing, focusing on the exclusivity of the condition.

is exclusively attainable if

Similar to the above, but uses "attainable" to suggest effort and achievement are involved.

hinges entirely on

This phrase uses a metaphorical expression to indicate that the outcome depends completely on a specific factor.

is conditional upon

A more formal phrasing indicating that the possibility is dependent on certain conditions being met.

is contingent on

Similar to "is conditional upon", highlighting the dependency on specific circumstances.

is achievable solely by

Focuses on the means or method by which something can be accomplished, emphasizing exclusivity.

can be realized just in case

Uses "can be realized" to convey achievement and "just in case" to introduce a qualifying condition.

is dependent solely upon

Emphasizes the dependence on a single factor for the possibility to exist.

is uniquely viable if

Suggests that the possibility is not only dependent but also the only practical option under the given condition.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "will only be possible" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "is solely achievable when", "is exclusively attainable if", or "is conditional upon". These options add a layer of sophistication to your writing.

What's a less formal way to say "will only be possible"?

In less formal contexts, you could use phrases like "can only happen if" or "depends on". These alternatives are more conversational and easier to understand.

Is it redundant to use "only" and "possible" together?

While "only" and "possible" might seem somewhat redundant, their combination emphasizes the exclusivity of the condition. The phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted.

When should I use "will be possible" versus "is possible"?

"Will be possible" implies a future condition or contingency that needs to be met, whereas "is possible" refers to a current or general possibility.