What is possibility? Pronunciation and usage in English

possibility means . Learn how to pronounce and use possibility through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of possibility

possibilitynoun

/ˌpɒsɪˈbɪlɪti/
Definition & pronunciation of possibility

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "possibility" in English. It’s a tricky one! Here's a breakdown and a few ways to approach it:

1. The Core Sounds:

  • pos-: Pronounced like "pos" as in "post office" (short 'o' sound).
  • -si-: Pronounced like "zee" (as in the letter ‘z’).
  • -bi-: Pronounced like "bee" (as in the letter ‘b’).
  • -li-: Pronounced like "lee" (as in “leaf”).
  • -ty: Pronounced like "tee" (as in “tea”).

2. Putting it Together – The Standard Pronunciation:

The most common pronunciation is:

ˈpɒs.ə.bɪl.ɪ.ti

  • ˈpɒs: Stress is on this first syllable. Make the "o" a short, clear "o" sound.
  • ə.bɪl: This is a schwa sound (the neutral 'uh' sound) in the middle. It's very quick and light.
  • ɪ.ti: Pronounce "i" as in "machine" and "t" as in "top."

3. Phonetic Transcription (for accuracy):

IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /ˈpɒs.ə.bɪl.ɪ.ti/

4. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't over-emphasize: The "bi-" part is often shortened and spoken quickly as a schwa. Resist the urge to say "pos-bi-bli-ty" with distinct beats.
  • The 'i' in 'li': This is a short 'i' sound, like in "bit."
  • Listen to Examples: This is crucial. The best way to get it right is to hear native speakers. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce possibility" on Google. You'll often see audio clips.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/possibility/ - This website has pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search YouTube for videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

5. A Slightly More Relaxed (but Still Correct) Pronunciation:

You'll often hear it pronounced with a slightly more relaxed rhythm:

ˈpɒs.ə.bɪl.ɪ.ti (with a flowing sound, especially between the syllables)

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you learning American English or British English? (Pronunciation can vary slightly).

Usage and examples with the word possibility in English

Let's break down how to use the word "possibility" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown of its uses, with examples:

1. As a Noun (Most Common Usage):

  • Definition: A chance or opportunity that something might happen. It's the potential for something to exist or occur.

  • Examples:

    • "There's a possibility that it will rain tomorrow." (Meaning: It might rain.)
    • "He saw a possibility for a new career." (Meaning: He recognized a potential opportunity.)
    • “The possibility of winning is slim, but we should still try.” (Meaning: The chance of winning is small.)
    • “Don’t rule out the possibility of a surprise party.” (Meaning: Don't discard the idea of a surprise party.)

2. As a Verb (Less Common):

  • Definition: To suggest or indicate a possibility. It means to offer or point out something that could happen.

  • Examples:

    • "The survey possibilities a significant shift in public opinion." (Meaning: The survey suggests a possible change in opinion.)
    • "He possibilityed that they might need more funding." (Meaning: He suggested or indicated that they might need more funding.) (This usage is a little formal and less frequently used than the noun form.)

3. Phrases Using “Possibility”:

  • Chance: Often used interchangeably with "possibility." “There’s a good chance of success.”
  • Remote possibility: Suggests a very small chance. "Winning the lottery is a remote possibility."
  • Slim possibility: Similar to 'remote possibility', a small chance. “He has a slim possibility of recovery.”
  • A possibility of…: “There’s a possibility of rain.”
  • Open to possibilities: Meaning: Willing to consider different options. "I'm open to possibilities for my future."

4. Context and Shades of Meaning:

  • Potential: "Possibility" is closely linked to the word "potential." It highlights the potential existence or occurrence of something.
  • Uncertainty: “Possibility” often involves a degree of uncertainty. It’s not a definite prediction.

Here’s a table to summarize:

Form Part of Speech Definition Example
Possibility Noun A chance or opportunity “There’s a possibility of travel.”
Possibility Verb To suggest or indicate a possibility “The report possibilities a different approach.”

Tips for Using "Possibility" Effectively:

  • Be specific: Instead of just saying "There's a possibility," try to add more detail about what might happen. "There's a possibility of rain tomorrow, especially in the evening."
  • Use it with words like “chance,” “opportunity,” and “potential” to create a more nuanced meaning.
  • Consider the tone: “Possibility” can sound somewhat formal. Choose your words carefully depending on the context.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you doing? (e.g., a formal essay, a casual email, a creative story?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you’re trying to use the word "possibility"? I can then help you refine it.

Synonyms for the word possibility

Idioms of the word possibility

within/beyond the bounds/realms of possibility
possible/not possible
  • A successful outcome is not beyond the realms of possibility.
  • It is not beyond the bounds of possibility that we'll all meet again one day.

Practice with vocabulary possibility

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Given the current market volatility, there's a strong __________ of a further interest rate hike next quarter.
  2. The team explored every technical __________ to optimize the system's performance, but some limitations remained.
  3. We need to act quickly to seize this unique __________ for market expansion before our competitors do.
  4. The meteorologist mentioned a high __________ of rain later this afternoon, so don't forget your umbrella.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Considering the recent advancements, what are the __________ for developing a sustainable energy source within the next decade? a) problems b) possibilities c) certainties d) limitations
  2. The board discussed the financial implications and several potential __________ for restructuring the company, including various financing models and departmental mergers. a) options b) necessities c) possibilities d) challenges
  3. There's a remote __________ that the missing data can still be recovered, but it would require a significant effort. a) probability b) certainty c) chance d) possibility
  4. Despite careful planning, there's always a __________ of unforeseen complications when launching a new product. a) certainty b) inevitability c) risk d) guarantee
  5. The project manager emphasized the need for a contingency plan, given the high __________ of delays in the supply chain. a) doubt b) likelihood c) uncertainty d) improbability

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. It is conceivable that the project budget might be increased next fiscal year.
  2. Developing renewable energy sources is entirely within our capabilities.
  3. We might encounter several hurdles as we implement the new policy.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. possibility
  2. possibility
  3. opportunity
  4. probability

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) possibilities
  2. a) options, c) possibilities
  3. a) probability, c) chance, d) possibility
  4. c) risk
  5. b) likelihood

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. There is a possibility that the project budget might be increased next fiscal year.
  2. The development of renewable energy sources is a distinct possibility.
  3. We might encounter several challenges as we implement the new policy.

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