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possibility

B1
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /pˌɒsəbˈɪlɪti/

US

  • /ˌpɑsəˈbɪləˌti/

Description

A possibility is the chance that something could happen—it is not certain, but it has not been ruled out either. Think of a detective investigating a crime; they explore every possibility to find the truth. Or imagine you are deciding what to have for dinner—there are many possibilities!

The word hints at potential. A "small possibility" means something is unlikely, while a "strong possibility" suggests it is quite probable. You might say, "There is a possibility of rain tomorrow," meaning it might rain. It can also refer to an option or alternative: "We discussed all the possibilities before making a decision." Sometimes, you will hear about a "slim possibility," which means something is unlikely but not impossible.

Examples

  1. 1

    Moving plans

    A move to Canada is still a possibility, but we haven't decided yet.

  2. 2

    Scheduling

    Is there any possibility of changing the meeting to Friday?

    • Pattern

      possibility of + -ing

      chance that it can happen

  3. 3

    Price changes

    There's a real possibility that prices will rise again this summer.

    • Pattern

      possibility that + clause

      chance that a whole situation may happen

  4. 4

    Mistake risk

    We can't ignore the possibility of a mistake in the report.

  5. 5

    Investigation

    The police have not ruled out the possibility that the fire was started on purpose.

    • Phrase

      rule out the possibility

      decide that something is not possible

  6. 6

    Unlikely outcome

    It's possible, but I think it's only a remote possibility.

    • Phrase

      a remote possibility

      something that could happen, but probably will not

  7. 7

    New opportunities

    The new job opened up possibilities I had never considered before.

    • Meaning

      possibilities

      chances to do new or different things

  8. 8

    Planning choices

    Before we choose a plan, let's look at all the possibilities.

  9. 9

    Business goal

    Winning the contract is within the realm of possibility, but it won't be easy.

    • Phrase

      within the realm of possibility

      possible, though not certain

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • possibilitynoun

Forms

  • possibilitiespluralnoun