Possibility (Noun)
Meaning 1
A future prospect or potential; "this room has great possibilities".
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
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Meaning 2
A tentative insight into the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena; "a scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory"; "he proposed a fresh theory of alkalis that later was accepted in chemical practices".
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The discovery of a new species of plant in the Amazon rainforest presents a possibility that could change our understanding of how certain ecosystems function.
- His hypothesis that water flows underground in the same way as it does on the surface is an interesting possibility that scientists are eager to test.
- One possibility for why the dinosaur species became extinct is that a massive asteroid collision affected the climate and made the environment uninhabitable.
- Research into why certain types of rocks are formed at certain depths of the earth's crust presents a possibility that some geologists find fascinating.
- The notion that the universe is cyclical and undergoes periods of expansion and contraction is a possibility that some scientists have proposed as an alternative to the Big Bang theory.
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Meaning 3
Capability of existing or happening or being true; "there is a possibility that his sense of smell has been impaired".
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- New medical treatments have brought to light the possibility of a cure for previously incurable diseases.
- There's a strong possibility that she'll get the job offer since she nailed the interview.
- The storm has raised the possibility of flooding in low-lying coastal areas tonight.
- Having quality schools offers one good possibility that the community can climb above economic instability.
- Scientists are investigating the possibility of using stem cells to treat various medical disorders.
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Meaning 4
A possible alternative; "bankruptcy is always a possibility".
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- Working a remote job is always a possibility for people who struggle with office environments.
- The company will consider downsizing as a last possibility if profits continue to decline.
- Moving to a new apartment is a strong possibility for the couple once they find a suitable location.
- With these poor sales figures, filing for bankruptcy is always a possibility for the struggling business.
- For job applicants with low qualifications, working part-time is usually the most viable possibility.