“There is a possibility that” is a phrase often used to express uncertainty or speculate about future events. While it might seem like a simple structure, mastering its use can significantly enhance your grammatical range and lexical resource score in the IELTS exam. Let’s explore various ways to utilize this phrase effectively across different sections of the IELTS.
Here are some examples of how “there is a possibility that” can be used in the IELTS exam:
Speaking:
- Examiner: What are your plans after graduating?
- Candidate: Well, there is a possibility that I might pursue a Master’s degree in Data Science, but I’m also considering gaining some work experience first.
Writing Task 2:
- Topic: Some people believe that technology has made our lives easier, while others argue that it has made them more complicated. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
- Sentence: There is a possibility that over-reliance on technology could lead to a decline in practical skills and critical thinking.
Listening:
- Script: The professor mentioned that there is a possibility that the exam date might be moved due to unforeseen circumstances.
Let’s delve deeper into understanding its usage and variations to help you achieve a higher band score.
Understanding “There is a Possibility That”
This phrase indicates that something might happen, but it’s not certain. It implies a degree of uncertainty and is often used to discuss potential outcomes, risks, or future scenarios. In the context of the IELTS exam, using this structure demonstrates your ability to:
- Express probability and speculate about the future.
- Showcase a range of grammatical structures.
- Enhance your lexical resource by using synonyms and related phrases.
Structure and Usage
The basic structure of this phrase is as follows:
There is/are + a possibility/possibility + that + subject + verb
Here’s a breakdown with examples:
- There is a possibility that the government will introduce new policies to combat climate change.
- There is a strong possibility that artificial intelligence will play a significant role in our future.
- There are possibilities that the company might expand its operations overseas in the coming years.
Variations and Synonyms
To demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, consider using these alternatives:
- It is possible that…
- It is likely that…
- There is a chance that…
- It is conceivable that…
- It is not impossible that…
IELTS Writing Task 1 and 2 Application
You can effectively use “there is a possibility that” and its variations in both Task 1 and Task 2 of the IELTS Writing test:
Task 1 (Describing Trends):
- Example: Based on the current trend, there is a strong possibility that the number of international students enrolling in universities in Canada will continue to rise.
Task 2 (Expressing Opinions and Speculating):
- Example: While some argue that globalization has led to job losses in developed countries, it is also possible that it has created new opportunities in emerging markets.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Subject-verb agreement: Ensure the verb agrees with the subject that follows “that.”
- Incorrect: There is a possibility that climate change are irreversible.
- Correct: There is a possibility that climate change is irreversible.
- Overuse: While useful, avoid overusing this phrase. Vary your language using synonyms and different grammatical structures.
- Confusing possibility with probability: Remember, “possibility” suggests something might happen, while “probability” implies a higher likelihood. Choose your words carefully depending on the context.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “there is a possibility that” and its variations will undoubtedly enhance your grammatical range and vocabulary score in the IELTS exam. By understanding its structure, practicing its application in various contexts, and avoiding common errors, you can confidently express uncertainty and speculate about the future in a clear and sophisticated manner. Remember to practice incorporating this phrase into your writing and speaking to familiarize yourself with its usage.