noun

possibilities

pos-uh-BIL-uh-teez

Possibilities (noun) means Things that might happen, or courses of action that could be taken. Example: “We narrowed it down to three possibilities before lunch.”

noun

Things that might happen, or courses of action that could be taken.

"We narrowed it down to three possibilities before lunch."

"Detectives are not ruling out any possibilities at this stage."

The potential that something has to be developed into something better.

"The flat is dark and cramped, but the garden has possibilities."

How to Use Possibilities

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThings that could happen, or choices you could make.

When to use it

Neutral and everyday.

Memory tip

Possibilities are things that could happen; probabilities are how likely each one is.

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Easily confused with

probabilities opportunities possibility →

Common pairings

endless possibilities explore the possibilities rule out possibilities open up new possibilities a world of possibilities

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

We narrowed it down to three _____ before lunch.

Etymology

Plural of possibility, from Latin possibilis meaning 'able to be done', from posse meaning 'to be able'.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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options alternatives choices scenarios prospects potential promise scope

Related Words

possible range potential scale setting background promise possibility

Rhymes for possibilities

lies Dies flies Aries Fries duties series ladies rabies undies Davies movies

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between possibilities and probabilities?

Possibilities are the outcomes that could occur at all, regardless of how unlikely. Probabilities measure how likely each of those outcomes is, usually as a number between 0 and 1. Every probability starts as a possibility, but most possibilities have very low probabilities.

What is the difference between possibilities and opportunities?

A possibility is simply something that could happen, good or bad. An opportunity is a possibility that would benefit you and that is open to you now, which is why it usually comes with a sense that it should be taken before it closes.

Is it 'possibility of' or 'possibility to'?

Standard English uses 'the possibility of' plus a noun or -ing form: 'the possibility of rain', 'the possibility of losing'. 'Possibility to do something' is a common learner error; use 'the chance to' or 'the opportunity to' instead.

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