WordGarden.iopossibility
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /pˌɒsəbˈɪlɪti/
US
- /ˌpɑsəˈbɪləˌti/
Meanings
Noun
the chance that something may happen or be true
a possible option, explanation, or outcome under consideration
Beyond the definition
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.
The word "possibility" refers to the chance that something might exist or happen, even if it isn't certain. It speaks to potential outcomes and opens up a world of "what ifs." It is more than just hope; it acknowledges uncertainty while leaving room for things to unfold.
Consider a scientist conducting an experiment—they explore various possibilities to understand how something works. Or think about a writer crafting a story; they develop different plot possibilities before settling on the final version.
"Possibility" can be used in several ways. You might talk about the possibility of success, meaning there is a chance you could achieve your goal. You could also discuss "possibilities" as options or alternatives: "Let's explore all our possibilities before committing to a plan."
The word often implies a degree of uncertainty. A phrase like, "There is a remote possibility he will arrive on time," suggests the chances are small, while, "The possibility of winning the lottery is very low," highlights how improbable something is. It is frequently paired with adjectives like "remote," "slim," "strong," or "real" to indicate the level of likelihood.
Ultimately, "possibility" reminds us that the future is not fixed and that even in uncertain times, there is always a chance for things to turn out differently. It is a word about potential, hope, and the open-ended nature of life itself.
Examples
- 1
Moving plans
A move to Canada is still a possibility, but we haven't decided yet.
- 2
Scheduling
Is there any possibility of changing the meeting to Friday?
- Patternpossibility of + -ing
chance that it can happen
- 3
Price changes
There's a real possibility that prices will rise again this summer.
- Patternpossibility that + clause
chance that a whole situation may happen
- 4
Mistake risk
We can't ignore the possibility of a mistake in the report.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Investigation
The police have not ruled out the possibility that the fire was started on purpose.
- Phraserule out the possibility
decide that something is not possible
- 6
Unlikely outcome
It's possible, but I think it's only a remote possibility.
- Phrasea remote possibility
something that could happen, but probably will not
- 7
New opportunities
The new job opened up possibilities I had never considered before.
- 8
Planning choices
Before we choose a plan, let's look at all the possibilities.
- 9
Business goal
Winning the contract is within the realm of possibility, but it won't be easy.
- Phrasewithin the realm of possibility
possible, though not certain
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- a real possibility
- the possibility of
- rule out the possibility
- there is a possibility that
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- possibilitynoun
Forms
- possibilitiespluralnoun