# possibility

/ˌpɑsəˈbɪɫəˌti/ (US) · /pˌɒsəbˈɪlɪti/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/possibility
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. chance of happening

noun · CEFR A2

a chance that something might happen or exist.

For teachers: the state or fact of being possible; a potential occurrence that is not certain but could happen.

- There is a strong possibility of rain later this afternoon.
- Scientists are currently investigating the possibility of liquid water existing beneath the icy surface of the distant moon.

### 2. an option or choice

noun · CEFR B1

one of several different things you could choose to do.

For teachers: a viable option or alternative course of action available for consideration.

- We are looking at every possibility before we decide which house to buy.
- The board of directors spent the morning session exploring every possibility for expansion into the European market before committing to a final strategy.

### 3. future potential

noun · CEFR B2

the chance that someone or something will improve or become great in the future.

For teachers: the inherent capacity for future growth, improvement, or success; often used in the plural.

- This old house is a mess, but it has great possibilities.
- The young pianist's debut performance was technically flawed, yet the critics agreed that her playing showed immense possibilities for a professional career.

Usage: Often used in the plural form 'possibilities' to describe general potential.

## Examples

- There is a possibility of rain later today.
- We are exploring every possibility to find a solution that works for everyone in the office.
- While the theoretical possibility of a market recovery remains, most analysts suggest that structural weaknesses in the sector will prevent any significant growth this fiscal year.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.