What does possibility mean?
A possibility is something that may happen, be done, or be chosen. The term can refer to the general fact of something being possible, as in "the possibility of human error," or to a specific option or outcome, as in "one possibility is to delay the launch." Possibilities are not promises: they indicate that an event is conceivable, though perhaps unlikely or unconfirmed. The word is widely used in discussions of plans, risks, opportunities, and uncertainties. "The possibility of rain" suggests that rain could occur, while "a remote possibility" implies that an outcome is considered only barely credible. Because it preserves uncertainty without suggesting that an outcome is probable, "possibility" is especially useful when describing options and open questions.
nounThe fact of being possible or capable of happening. A possibility is an option, circumstance, or outcome that may occur, although it is not certain.
- The fact that something can happen or be done.
- A possible course of events, option, or outcome.
- A person or thing that could be chosen or used, especially in a list of alternatives.
"There is a real possibility that the meeting will be postponed."
"The proposal is still a possibility, although no decision has been made."
"The doctor discussed the possibility of further treatment before the operation."
"The company is considering the possibility of opening a second office."
The plural is used for different possible outcomes, choices, or courses of action.
"The investigation considered several possibilities before identifying the cause."
A possibility is not a promise, but it is the small opening through which plans, hopes, and unexpected futures begin.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does possibility come from?
The word comes from Latin possibilitas, a noun formed from possibility's related adjective possibilityus, meaning "able to be done or possible." The underlying Latin posse means "to be able" or "to have the power to." English borrowed the word in the 15th century, initially in the sense of a person's resources or wealth that made something attainable. By the 17th century, it had developed into the modern sense of a circumstance that may happen.
Related word forms
How possibility is actually used
The word is neutral in tone and common in both formal and informal contexts. In everyday use, it often indicates an alternative or chance rather than a firmly established plan. "The possibility of" is especially common when discussing risks, opportunities, and future events.
Easily confused with possibility
A possibility may exist without being especially likely, while a probability expresses the likelihood of an event and is often expressed numerically.