C1 Expression Neutral 6 Min. Lesezeit

It is possible that

Hedging expression to soften claims

In 15 Sekunden

  • Used to soften a claim and avoid sounding too bossy or certain.
  • Followed by a full sentence (clause) starting with 'that'.
  • Perfect for professional emails, reports, and polite disagreements.
  • A 'hedge' that protects the speaker from being proven wrong.

Bedeutung

Ein sprachliches Werkzeug, um eine Aussage abzufedern und Unsicherheit höflich auszudrücken. Es ermöglicht, eine Idee vorzuschlagen, ohne sie als absolute Tatsache darzustellen.

Wichtige Beispiele

3 von 10
1

In a professional email regarding a delay

It is possible that the shipment will be delayed by two days.

It is possible that the shipment will be delayed by two days.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
2

Discussing a theory on a Reddit thread

It is possible that the directors intended the ending to be ambiguous.

It is possible that the directors intended the ending to be ambiguous.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
3

A scientist explaining a result on YouTube

It is possible that these results were influenced by the temperature.

It is possible that these results were influenced by the temperature.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
🌍

Kultureller Hintergrund

The rise of this phrase is closely tied to the development of the scientific method and academic writing in the English-speaking world. It reflects a cultural value placed on 'tentativeness'—the idea that one should never claim absolute certainty without empirical proof. In British English specifically, it aligns with a long-standing tradition of understatement and avoiding direct confrontation. Today, it has become a staple of corporate 'weasel words,' used by organizations to discuss possibilities without making legally binding promises.

🎯

The 'That' Drop

In fast, modern conversation, you can drop the word 'that' (e.g., 'It's possible he's late'). It makes you sound more like a native speaker and less like a textbook.

⚠️

Don't Be Too Vague

Using this phrase too much in a single paragraph makes you look like you don't know what you're talking about. Balance it with facts!

In 15 Sekunden

  • Used to soften a claim and avoid sounding too bossy or certain.
  • Followed by a full sentence (clause) starting with 'that'.
  • Perfect for professional emails, reports, and polite disagreements.
  • A 'hedge' that protects the speaker from being proven wrong.

What It Means

Ever been almost sure about something but didn't want to bet your last slice of pizza on it? It is possible that is your best friend in those moments. It functions as a 'hedge,' a linguistic tool used to soften a statement. Instead of saying 'The Wi-Fi is broken,' which sounds like a final judgment, you say It is possible that the Wi-Fi is broken. This leaves room for the possibility that you just forgot to turn it on. It signals that you have considered the evidence but aren't ready to declare a definitive truth. It’s about balance and intellectual caution. You aren't being vague; you're being precise about your level of uncertainty. It’s like wearing a helmet while riding a bike—you’re moving forward, but you’re protected if things go sideways.

How To Use It

Grammatically, this phrase is quite sturdy. It starts with the 'dummy it'—a placeholder subject that doesn't actually refer to a thing. Then comes the verb is, the adjective possible, and the conjunction that. After that, you simply drop in a full, independent sentence. For example: It is possible that + the meeting was moved. You can change the tense of the main verb too. It was possible that looks at the past, while It will be possible that looks ahead. Pro tip: in casual speech, people often drop the that, saying It's possible we missed the bus. However, keeping the that makes you sound a bit more polished and academic. It’s like the difference between wearing sneakers and wearing slightly nicer boots.

Formality & Register

You’ll find this phrase most often in professional emails, academic papers, and news reports. It’s a favorite of scientists and lawyers who hate being 100% wrong. In a casual setting, like texting your bestie about why they haven't replied, It is possible that might sound a bit stiff or even sarcastic. If you tell a friend, It is possible that you forgot our lunch date, they might think you’re being a bit 'extra' or passive-aggressive. In a Zoom interview, though? It’s pure gold. It makes you sound thoughtful and measured. It’s the business-casual of the English language—not quite a tuxedo, but definitely not pajamas.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine you're watching a Netflix documentary about aliens. The narrator says, It is possible that life exists on other planets. They don't say 'Aliens are real' because they'd lose their job if they couldn't prove it. Or check your Slack notifications. A coworker might message, It is possible that the server update caused the glitch. They are suggesting a cause without blaming the IT guy directly yet. You’ll also see this in weather apps. It is possible that showers will occur this afternoon is basically the app's way of saying, 'Bring an umbrella, but don't @ me if it stays sunny.' It’s the language of cautious optimism and careful blame-avoidance.

When To Use It

Use this when you want to sound like an expert who respects the complexity of the world. It’s perfect for brainstorming sessions where you want to toss out an idea without sounding bossy. Use it when writing a report for your boss about why sales are down—it shows you’ve investigated but aren't jumping to conclusions. It's also great for being polite. If someone asks a question you don't fully know the answer to, starting with It is possible that... buys you time and credibility. It’s the 'I’m not saying, I’m just saying' of the professional world, but much classier.

When NOT To Use It

Avoid this phrase in high-stakes, emotional moments. If you’re proposing to someone, do NOT say, It is possible that I want to spend my life with you. That is a one-way ticket to being single. Also, don't use it in emergencies. If a building is on fire, shouting It is possible that we should exit now! is too slow. You need 'Get out!' In very casual slang-heavy conversations, it can make you sound like a robot or a textbook. If your friend asks if you want boba, don't say It is possible that I am hungry. Just say 'Yeah, let's go!'

Common Mistakes

The most frequent slip-up is forgetting the 'it' at the start. Many learners say ✗ Is possible that... because their native language might allow dropping the subject. In English, that 'it' is non-negotiable! Another one is using 'for' instead of 'that' followed by a clause. ✗ It is possible for the rain will fall → ✓ It is possible that it will rain. Also, watch out for the double-softener. ✗ It is possible that maybe it might rain. That's too many hedges! It makes you sound like you’re afraid of your own shadow. Pick one and stick with it.

Common Variations

If It is possible that feels a bit too heavy for your sentence, you can swap it for There is a chance that. This sounds slightly more optimistic. For a more casual vibe, try Maybe or Perhaps at the beginning of the sentence. If you want to sound even more formal, scientists often use It is conceivable that or It stands to reason that. If you’re feeling a bit 'British,' you might say It could be that. In the world of texting, we often just use Poss or Maybe...? with a shrug emoji. Each variation changes the 'flavor' of the uncertainty.

Real Conversations

M

Manager

Why is the website loading so slowly today?
D

Developer

It is possible that the new plugin is conflicting with the CSS.
M

Manager

Can you check that?
D

Developer

Sure, I'll run a test now.
S

Sarah

Have you seen my keys anywhere?
T

Tom

It is possible that you left them in the car again.
S

Sarah

Oh, right. I always do that. Thanks!

HR Rep: Why should we hire you?

C

Candidate

It is possible that my experience with Python will help the team automate these tasks.

HR Rep: We like that kind of thinking.

Quick FAQ

Is it formal? Yes, but it works in neutral settings too. Does it mean the same as 'maybe'? Essentially, yes, but it focuses on the logic rather than just the guess. Can I use it for the past? Absolutely—just use It was possible that. Is it common in American English? Very, especially in business and tech. Does it sound certain? No, it specifically signals that you are NOT 100% certain, which is actually a sign of higher-level language mastery. It’s the difference between a guess and an educated hypothesis.

Nutzungshinweise

The phrase is a 'neutral-to-formal' hedge. Always ensure you have a subject ('it') and a verb ('is') before 'possible'. In casual speech, the 'that' is often omitted, but keep it for professional writing to ensure clarity and flow.

🎯

The 'That' Drop

In fast, modern conversation, you can drop the word 'that' (e.g., 'It's possible he's late'). It makes you sound more like a native speaker and less like a textbook.

⚠️

Don't Be Too Vague

Using this phrase too much in a single paragraph makes you look like you don't know what you're talking about. Balance it with facts!

💬

The Politeness Factor

English speakers often use this to disagree without being rude. Instead of saying 'You're wrong,' they say 'It's possible that there's another explanation.' It's a key social skill.

💡

Grammar Hack

Always follow this phrase with a full sentence (Subject + Verb). If you find yourself using just a noun, use 'possible for' instead (e.g., 'It is possible for us' vs 'It is possible that we...').

Beispiele

10
#1 In a professional email regarding a delay
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

It is possible that the shipment will be delayed by two days.

It is possible that the shipment will be delayed by two days.

Softens the bad news so the client doesn't panic immediately.

#2 Discussing a theory on a Reddit thread
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

It is possible that the directors intended the ending to be ambiguous.

It is possible that the directors intended the ending to be ambiguous.

A polite way to share an opinion in a fan community.

#3 A scientist explaining a result on YouTube
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

It is possible that these results were influenced by the temperature.

It is possible that these results were influenced by the temperature.

Standard academic hedging to maintain scientific integrity.

#4 Texting a friend about a missed call
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

It is possible that my phone was on silent when you called.

It is possible that my phone was on silent when you called.

A polite excuse that sounds less defensive than 'My phone was on silent.'

#5 On a Zoom call discussing a bug
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

It is possible that the server is just overloaded right now.

It is possible that the server is just overloaded right now.

Suggesting a cause without blaming the dev team yet.

#6 Instagram caption for a travel photo
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

It is possible that I never want to leave this beach.

It is possible that I never want to leave this beach.

Using a formal structure for a dramatic, slightly humorous effect.

A learner making a grammar mistake Häufiger Fehler
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ Is possible that he forgot → ✓ It is possible that he forgot.

It's possible he forgot.

Never forget the 'it' at the beginning of the phrase.

A learner using the wrong connector Häufiger Fehler
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ It is possible for the rain → ✓ It is possible that it will rain.

It is possible that it will rain.

Use 'that' followed by a full sentence, not 'for' plus a noun.

#9 Ordering food on an app
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

It is possible that the restaurant is closed for the holiday.

It is possible that the restaurant is closed for the holiday.

Checking a status logically.

#10 A deep conversation with a partner
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

It is possible that we just need some time to think.

It is possible that we just need some time to think.

Using a hedge to make a sensitive suggestion more palatable.

Teste dich selbst

Fill in the blank to complete the phrase.

✓ Richtig! ✗ Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort: It is

English requires a 'dummy subject' (it) before 'is possible'.

Find and fix the error in this sentence.

✓ Richtig! ✗ Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

We use 'that' to introduce the clause explaining what is possible.

Choose the most professional way to suggest a delay.

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly for a business report?

✓ Richtig! ✗ Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort: It is possible that the project will experience delays.

This version uses the full formal structure and professional vocabulary.

🎉 Ergebnis: /3

Visuelle Lernhilfen

Ways to Say 'Maybe'

Casual

Used with friends and family.

Maybe / Might be

Neutral

Used in general conversation.

There's a chance that...

Formal

Used in work, school, and science.

It is possible that...

Very Formal

Used in legal or high-academic texts.

It is conceivable that...

Where to Use 'It is possible that'

Possible Situations
📧

Work Emails

Discussing project delays.

🔬

Science

Suggesting a new theory.

🎧

Customer Support

Explaining a technical issue.

📰

News Reports

Reporting unconfirmed events.

📱

Social Media

Sharing a fan theory.

Possibility vs. Probability

It is possible that...
Confidence level 20-50%
Focus Pure chance/logic
It is likely that...
Confidence level 60-80%
Focus High expectation

Variation Types

Past Tense

  • It was possible that
  • Could have been that
📈

More Certain

  • It is probable that
  • It is likely that
📉

More Negative

  • It is unlikely that
  • It is doubtful that

Aufgabensammlung

3 Aufgaben
Fill in the blank to complete the phrase. Fill Blank beginner

... ___ possible that we are lost.

✓ Richtig! ✗ Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort: It is

English requires a 'dummy subject' (it) before 'is possible'.

Find and fix the error in this sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Finde und korrigiere den Fehler:

It is possible for the bus is late.

✓ Richtig! ✗ Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort: It is possible that the bus is late.

We use 'that' to introduce the clause explaining what is possible.

Choose the most professional way to suggest a delay. Choose advanced

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly for a business report?

✓ Richtig! ✗ Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort: It is possible that the project will experience delays.

This version uses the full formal structure and professional vocabulary.

🎉 Ergebnis: /3

Häufig gestellte Fragen

18 Fragen

Yes, 'It is possible that' is significantly more formal than 'Maybe'. While you can use 'maybe' with friends or in casual texts, 'It is possible that' is better suited for professional emails, academic essays, or formal presentations where you want to appear measured and objective.

Absolutely, it is almost always used at the beginning of a sentence to set the tone for the information that follows. By starting with this phrase, you immediately inform the listener or reader that what follows is a possibility rather than a confirmed fact, which helps manage their expectations.

The word 'possible' means something could happen, even if the chance is very small (like 1%). 'Probable' means something is actually likely to happen (usually more than a 50% chance). Use 'It is possible that' when you aren't sure, and 'It is probable that' when you are quite confident.

Yes, in spoken English and informal writing, dropping 'that' is very common (e.g., 'It is possible he forgot'). However, in formal writing or when you want to be extra clear, it is best to keep 'that' to properly connect the two parts of your sentence together.

It is always 'It is possible that'. Using 'There is' is a common mistake for learners. In English, we use 'It' as a dummy subject for adjectives like 'possible,' 'important,' or 'necessary.' Think of it as a fixed grammar rule you just have to memorize.

Yes, you simply change 'is' to 'was' (e.g., 'It was possible that the rain stopped the game'). This allows you to discuss possibilities that existed in the past, even if we now know the actual outcome. It's great for analyzing history or past mistakes.

You have two main options: 'It is not possible that...' (which is very strong and almost means 'impossible') or 'It is possible that... not...' (e.g., 'It is possible that he didn't see us'). The second option is much more common and sounds more natural in everyday speech.

Yes, it is a staple of scientific communication. Scientists use it to avoid making 'absolute' claims that could be disproven by future data. Using it makes your English sound more analytical and thoughtful, which is highly valued in universities and technical industries.

No, this is a very common error. Every English sentence (except for commands) needs a subject. Since there is no real person or thing performing the action here, we must use the word 'It' as a placeholder subject. Skipping it sounds very 'broken' to native ears.

Good synonyms include 'It could be that,' 'There's a chance that,' 'Perhaps,' or 'It is conceivable that.' Each one has a slightly different 'vibe.' For example, 'There's a chance' sounds more hopeful, while 'It is conceivable' sounds very intellectual and formal.

It is equally common in both! However, British speakers might use it slightly more often in social situations to be polite or indirect, while American speakers might use it more specifically in business or technical contexts to hedge their claims.

Yes! You just flip the first two words: 'Is it possible that...?' This is a very polite and sophisticated way to ask for information or to suggest an idea without being pushy. For example, 'Is it possible that we need more time?' sounds much nicer than 'Do we need more time?'

Email is a permanent record, and 'maybe' can sometimes sound a bit too casual or even lazy. 'It is possible that' sounds like you have put thought into the situation and are providing a professional assessment. It helps build your 'corporate persona' as someone who is careful and detail-oriented.

Technically you can, but it often sounds redundant (e.g., 'It is possible that it might rain'). Since 'possible' and 'might' both express uncertainty, using both is like saying 'maybe maybe.' It’s better to choose one: 'It is possible that it will rain' OR 'It might rain.'

Use 'possible for' when followed by a noun/pronoun and an infinitive (e.g., 'It is possible for *us* to *go*'). Use 'possible that' when followed by a full sentence (e.g., 'It is possible that *we will go*'). 'That' is the most common choice for general ideas.

It can! If your roommate hasn't washed the dishes and you say, 'It is possible that the dishes won't wash themselves,' you are being very sarcastic. In social situations, the tone of your voice matters just as much as the words you choose.

Often! News outlets use it when they have a lead but can't confirm it yet (e.g., 'It is possible that the suspect fled the city'). This protects the news organization from lawsuits while still allowing them to report on the latest developments in a story.

It might sound a bit 'heavy' for a short text. If you're just chatting, 'Maybe' or 'Might be' is usually better. Save 'It is possible that' for when you're explaining something complex or want to sound more serious and logical to the person you're texting.

Verwandte Redewendungen

😊

It could be that

informal version

A slightly more casual way to express a possibility.

It uses the modal 'could' to suggest a chance without the formal weight of 'it is possible'.

🔄

There is a chance that

synonym

Suggests that an outcome is one of several possibilities.

This phrase focuses more on the 'odds' or 'luck' involved in the situation occurring.

🔗

It is likely that

related topic

Expresses a high probability that something is true.

This is the next step up in confidence from 'possible,' moving from 'maybe' to 'probably'.

🔄

Perhaps

synonym

A single-word adverb used to show uncertainty.

It's a versatile, slightly poetic alternative that can be placed at the start of any sentence.

👔

It is conceivable that

formal version

A very formal way to say something is possible to imagine.

Used in philosophy or high-level academic debate to discuss what is logically possible.

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