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Grammar fix

a remote possibility

slim chance

used to describe something that is technically possible but extremely unlikely to happen.

collocationC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • There's only a remote possibility that the flight will be cancelled due to weather.daily life
  • While some experts believe there is a remote possibility of reversing climate change, most agree that immediate action is necessary to prevent further damage.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: there is a remote possibility (that) + clause | a remote possibility of + noun/gerund

WrongIt's a far possibility.

RightIt's a remote possibility.

It's a 'remote' possibility, not a 'far' one.

Patternthere is a remote possibility (that) + clause | a remote possibility of + noun/gerund

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff That outcome remains a highly improbable and distant eventuality.

Natural That's a remote possibility.

'Improbable and distant eventuality' is padded; 'a remote possibility' is the set phrase.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • a remote possibility
    only ajust ahoweverrule out

Don't confuse it

Unlike 'a possibility' (which simply means something could happen), 'a remote possibility' highlights that the chance is very small and the event is not expected.

Try it in Daily Speak →