Exploring the realm of possibility has never been more exciting! From ‘maybe’ to ‘could be,’ the world of slang offers a myriad of ways to express potential outcomes. Join us as we unravel the top slang terms that add a dash of flair to conversations about what could happen. Get ready to spice up your language and embrace the endless possibilities with our carefully curated list!
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1. Snowball’s chance in hell
This phrase is used to express that something has an extremely low chance of happening. It implies that the odds are stacked against the desired outcome.
- For example, “There’s a snowball’s chance in hell that I’ll win the lottery.”
- In a discussion about a difficult task, someone might say, “Getting that promotion is a snowball’s chance in hell.”
- Another might comment, “With the current economy, finding a job is a snowball’s chance in hell.”
2. Fat chance
This phrase is used to express that something is unlikely to happen. It implies that the chances of the desired outcome are slim.
- For instance, “You think they’ll let us skip class? Fat chance!”
- In a conversation about winning a contest, someone might say, “I have a fat chance of winning with so many talented participants.”
- Another might comment, “Getting a raise this year? Fat chance!”
3. Touch and go
This phrase is used to describe a situation that is unpredictable or uncertain. It implies that the outcome could go either way.
- For example, “The patient’s condition is touch and go right now.”
- In a discussion about a close sports match, someone might say, “It was touch and go until the very end.”
- Another might comment, “The success of the project is touch and go at this point.”
4. Up in the air
This phrase is used to describe a situation that is still uncertain or undecided. It implies that a decision or outcome has not been determined.
- For instance, “The date for the event is still up in the air.”
- In a conversation about vacation plans, someone might say, “Our destination is up in the air right now.”
- Another might comment, “The future of the company is up in the air due to recent changes.”
5. Hail Mary
This phrase is used to describe a desperate or risky attempt made when all other options have failed. It implies that the action is a final and unlikely attempt to achieve a desired outcome.
- For example, “He made a Hail Mary pass in the last seconds of the game.”
- In a discussion about a difficult situation, someone might say, “I’m going to try a Hail Mary and see if it works.”
- Another might comment, “The company’s decision to invest heavily in advertising was a Hail Mary to boost sales.”
6. It could happen
This phrase is used to express the possibility that something might occur, although it is not guaranteed.
- For example, if someone suggests a risky plan, another person might respond, “Well, it could happen, but there are definitely risks involved.”
- In a conversation about potential outcomes, someone might say, “I think it’s unlikely, but hey, it could happen.”
- A person might use this phrase to express cautious optimism, saying, “I’m not getting my hopes up, but it could happen.”
7. It’s on the cards
This phrase is commonly used in British English to indicate that something is probable or likely to occur.
- For instance, if someone is discussing the chances of winning a competition, they might say, “I think it’s on the cards for us to come out on top.”
- In a conversation about future plans, someone might say, “Getting a promotion is on the cards for me this year.”
- A person might use this phrase to express confidence in a positive outcome, saying, “I’ve worked hard, so I believe success is on the cards.”
8. On the horizon
This phrase suggests that something is approaching or about to happen in the near future.
- For example, if someone is discussing upcoming projects, they might say, “We have some exciting opportunities on the horizon.”
- In a conversation about travel plans, someone might say, “I’m saving up for a big trip, and it’s on the horizon.”
- A person might use this phrase to express anticipation, saying, “I can’t wait to see what’s on the horizon for my career.”
9. In the realm of possibility
This phrase indicates that something is within the range of possible outcomes or scenarios.
- For instance, if someone is discussing potential solutions to a problem, they might say, “I think this idea is in the realm of possibility.”
- In a conversation about achieving a challenging goal, someone might say, “It’s going to be difficult, but it’s still within the realm of possibility.”
- A person might use this phrase to express optimism, saying, “Even though it’s a long shot, it’s still in the realm of possibility.”
10. Within the realm of possibility
This phrase emphasizes that something is definitely possible and not out of the realm of what could happen.
- For example, if someone is discussing potential outcomes, they might say, “I believe this scenario is within the realm of possibility.”
- In a conversation about future plans, someone might say, “I’ve considered various options, but this one is definitely within the realm of possibility.”
- A person might use this phrase to express confidence in a positive outcome, saying, “With the right effort and resources, success is within the realm of possibility.”
11. Not out of the question
This phrase means that something is possible or could potentially happen. It suggests that the idea or outcome is not completely unlikely.
- For example, if someone asks, “Do you think we’ll win the game?” and the response is, “It’s not out of the question,” it means there is a chance of winning.
- In a discussion about travel plans, someone might say, “Going to Europe next year is not out of the question.”
- If a student asks their teacher if they can retake a test, the teacher might respond, “It’s not out of the question, but you’ll need to show improvement.”
12. A fighting chance
This phrase means that there is a small chance or possibility of success, but it will require effort, determination, or resilience.
- For instance, if someone is facing a difficult challenge and a friend says, “You still have a fighting chance,” it means there is still hope for success.
- In a sports context, a commentator might say, “Despite being the underdog, they have a fighting chance to win the championship.”
- If a person is applying for a competitive job, someone might encourage them by saying, “Even though it’s tough, you have a fighting chance if you showcase your skills.”
13. A glimmer of hope
This phrase describes a small or faint sign of hope in a situation that may seem bleak or hopeless. It suggests that there is still a possibility for a positive outcome.
- For example, if someone is going through a difficult time and a friend says, “There’s still a glimmer of hope,” it means that things may improve.
- In a medical context, a doctor might say to a patient, “We’ve seen a glimmer of hope in your test results.”
- If a team is losing a game but manages to score a goal, a commentator might say, “That goal gives them a glimmer of hope to turn the game around.”
14. A ray of hope
Similar to “a glimmer of hope,” this phrase refers to a sign or indication that there is hope or a possibility of a positive outcome in a situation.
- For instance, if someone is searching for a job and receives an interview invitation, a friend might say, “That interview is a ray of hope.”
- In a difficult situation, someone might say, “Even though things look bleak, we need to hold on to any ray of hope we can find.”
- If a person is struggling with a challenging task and makes a small breakthrough, they might say, “That small success is a ray of hope that I can accomplish this.”
15. A crack in the door
This phrase describes a small opening or opportunity for something to happen or be possible. It suggests that there is a chance, although it may be limited or uncertain.
- For example, if someone is trying to convince their boss to give them a promotion and the boss says, “I’ll consider it,” the person might say, “That’s a crack in the door for me.”
- In a negotiation, if one party makes a small concession, the other party might say, “That’s a crack in the door for reaching an agreement.”
- If a student is hoping for a scholarship and receives a letter saying they made it to the next round, they might say, “That’s a crack in the door for getting the scholarship.”
16. Odds
This term refers to the probability or likelihood of something happening. It is often used to discuss the chances of a particular outcome.
- For example, “What are the odds of winning the lottery?”
- In a sports context, someone might say, “The odds are in favor of the home team.”
- Another usage might be, “The odds of getting accepted into that prestigious university are slim.”
17. Maybe so
This phrase is used to express uncertainty or the possibility of something happening. It suggests that there is a chance, but it is not guaranteed.
- For instance, “Will you be able to make it to the party?” “Maybe so.”
- In a discussion about plans, someone might say, “We can meet up for dinner, maybe so.”
- Another usage might be, “Maybe so, but I’m not convinced it will work.”
18. Potentiality
This term refers to the inherent capacity or possibility of something to happen or develop in a certain way. It implies that there is a chance for something to occur.
- For example, “This project has a lot of potentiality for success.”
- In a conversation about career options, someone might say, “I’m exploring different potentialities.”
- Another usage might be, “The potentiality for growth in this industry is immense.”
19. Prospects
This term refers to the chances or possibilities for future success or advancement. It is often used to discuss potential outcomes or opportunities.
- For instance, “What are your job prospects after graduation?”
- In a discussion about investments, someone might say, “There are promising prospects in the real estate market.”
- Another usage might be, “I’m considering my prospects for starting a business.”
20. Likelihood
This term refers to the chance or probability of something happening. It is often used to discuss the likelihood of a particular outcome or event.
- For example, “What is the likelihood of rain tomorrow?”
- In a discussion about risks, someone might say, “The likelihood of injury is high in extreme sports.”
- Another usage might be, “The likelihood of success depends on careful planning and execution.”
21. Feasibility
The state or degree of being possible or likely to happen. “Feasibility” is often used to describe the practicality or viability of a particular idea or plan.
- For example, a project manager might say, “We need to assess the feasibility of implementing this new software.”
- In a discussion about starting a business, someone might ask, “What’s the feasibility of our idea in the current market?”
- A student might consider the feasibility of taking on a part-time job while studying full-time.
22. Conceivability
The quality or state of being able to be imagined or thought of. “Conceivability” is often used to discuss the potential for something to be conceived or imagined.
- For instance, a writer might say, “I’m exploring the conceivability of a parallel universe in my new novel.”
- In a philosophical debate, someone might argue, “The conceivability of a scenario does not necessarily imply its possibility in reality.”
- A scientist might discuss the conceivability of time travel within the laws of physics.
23. Plausibility
The quality or state of being plausible or believable. “Plausibility” is often used to assess the likelihood or reasonableness of a particular explanation or scenario.
- For example, a detective might say, “The plausibility of this suspect’s alibi is questionable.”
- In a discussion about conspiracy theories, someone might argue, “The plausibility of this theory is highly unlikely.”
- A movie critic might comment on the plausibility of a film’s plot.
24. Eventuality
A possible or probable outcome or result of a particular situation or event. “Eventuality” is often used to refer to something that may happen in the future, especially as a potential consequence.
- For instance, a financial advisor might say, “We need to plan for the eventuality of a market downturn.”
- In a discussion about climate change, someone might mention, “The eventuality of more frequent extreme weather events is a major concern.”
- A parent might prepare for the eventuality of their child going off to college.
25. Chances are
An expression used to indicate that something is likely or probable to happen. “Chances are” is often used to convey a high likelihood or possibility.
- For example, a weather forecast might say, “Chances are it will rain tomorrow.”
- In a conversation about travel plans, someone might say, “Chances are I’ll visit Europe next summer.”
- A friend might speculate, “Chances are he’ll be late to the party again.”
26. It could go either way
This phrase is used to describe a situation where the outcome is unpredictable or could have different results.
- For example, “I’m not sure if I’ll get the job. It could go either way.”
- In a sports match, a commentator might say, “With only a few minutes left, it could go either way.”
- A person discussing a controversial decision might say, “The outcome of the trial could go either way.”
27. A shot in the dark
This phrase is used to describe an action or guess that is based on little to no information or evidence.
- For instance, “I don’t know the answer, but I’ll take a shot in the dark.”
- When trying to solve a difficult puzzle, someone might say, “I’ll try this combination, but it’s just a shot in the dark.”
- A person attempting to fix a broken device might say, “I’ll try replacing this part, but it’s really just a shot in the dark.”
28. A snowball’s chance in hell
This phrase is used to describe a situation or possibility that is highly unlikely or almost impossible.
- For example, “There’s a snowball’s chance in hell that I’ll win the lottery.”
- When discussing a team’s chances of winning against a much stronger opponent, someone might say, “They have a snowball’s chance in hell.”
- A person talking about a difficult task might say, “I have a snowball’s chance in hell of finishing this on time.”
29. A long shot
This phrase is used to describe a possibility or attempt that has a low chance of success but is still worth trying.
- For instance, “It’s a long shot, but I’ll ask for a raise.”
- When discussing a risky investment, someone might say, “It’s a long shot, but it could pay off.”
- A person attempting to win a difficult competition might say, “I know it’s a long shot, but I’m giving it my all.”
30. Odds are against it
This phrase is used to describe a situation where the probability or likelihood of a certain outcome is low or not in someone’s favor.
- For example, “The odds are against us winning the game.”
- When discussing the chances of success for a risky venture, someone might say, “The odds are against it, but we’re willing to take the risk.”
- A person talking about a difficult challenge might say, “The odds are against me, but I’ll give it my best shot.”
31. It’s up in the air
This phrase is used to describe a situation or outcome that is uncertain or undecided. It suggests that the final result is still unknown or could go either way.
- For example, “We don’t know if the project will be approved. It’s up in the air.”
- In a sports context, someone might say, “The game could go either way. It’s up in the air.”
- When discussing future plans, one might say, “I’m not sure if I’ll be able to attend the party. It’s up in the air.”
32. It’s anyone’s guess
This phrase implies that the answer or outcome is unknown or unpredictable. It suggests that anyone’s guess is as good as another’s.
- For instance, “Who will win the election? It’s anyone’s guess.”
- When discussing the weather, someone might say, “Will it rain tomorrow? It’s anyone’s guess.”
- In a game of chance, one might say, “Which team will win? It’s anyone’s guess.”
33. Fifty-fifty
This term is used to describe a situation where the chances or likelihood of two outcomes are equal or evenly balanced.
- For example, “There’s a fifty-fifty chance of rain tomorrow.”
- When discussing a bet or wager, someone might say, “Let’s go fifty-fifty on the winnings.”
- In a decision-making context, one might say, “We’re still debating which option to choose. It’s fifty-fifty at the moment.”
34. It’s a toss-up
This phrase is used to describe a situation or outcome that is uncertain or unpredictable. It suggests that the final result could go either way, similar to a coin toss.
- For instance, “Will they win the game? It’s a toss-up.”
- When discussing two options, someone might say, “I’m not sure which one to choose. It’s a toss-up.”
- In a competition or contest, one might say, “Who will be the winner? It’s a toss-up.”
35. It’s a coin flip
This phrase is used to describe a situation or outcome that is uncertain or undecided. It implies that the final result is as unpredictable as the outcome of a coin flip.
- For example, “Will they get the job? It’s a coin flip.”
- When discussing a choice between two options, someone might say, “I can’t decide. It’s a coin flip.”
- In a sports context, one might say, “Who will win the game? It’s a coin flip.”
36. It’s in the realm of possibility
This phrase means that something is possible or has a chance of occurring. It suggests that the idea or outcome is within the bounds of what is feasible or likely.
- For example, if someone asks if a project will be completed on time, you might respond, “It’s in the realm of possibility, but we’ll need to work hard.”
- In a discussion about potential career opportunities, someone might say, “Getting a promotion is in the realm of possibility if you prove yourself.”
- If someone asks if a vacation destination is affordable, you might say, “It’s in the realm of possibility if you budget carefully.”
37. It’s looking good
This phrase indicates that the situation or outcome is favorable or positive. It suggests that things are progressing well and there is a good chance of success or a positive result.
- For instance, if someone asks about the chances of winning a game, you might respond, “It’s looking good, we’ve been practicing a lot.”
- In a discussion about a job interview, someone might say, “I think I have a good chance of getting the job, it’s looking good.”
- If someone asks about the weather for an outdoor event, you might say, “It’s looking good, the forecast is clear skies.”
38. It’s a sure thing
This phrase expresses absolute certainty or confidence in a particular outcome or event. It implies that there is no doubt or uncertainty about the result.
- For example, if someone asks if a flight will be on time, you might respond, “It’s a sure thing, the airline has a good track record.”
- In a discussion about a sports match, someone might say, “With our star player back in the lineup, victory is a sure thing.”
- If someone asks if a package will arrive on time, you might say, “It’s a sure thing, I paid for express shipping.”
39. It’s a safe bet
This phrase suggests that something is highly probable or likely to occur. It implies that the option or outcome being discussed is a reliable or sensible choice.
- For instance, if someone asks if a restaurant will be busy on a Friday night, you might respond, “It’s a safe bet, it’s always packed.”
- In a discussion about a movie’s box office success, someone might say, “With the star power and positive reviews, it’s a safe bet the film will do well.”
- If someone asks if a certain team will win the championship, you might say, “It’s a safe bet, they’ve been dominating the season.”
40. It’s a dead cert
This phrase indicates absolute certainty or a guaranteed outcome. It suggests that there is no possibility of failure or deviation from the expected result.
- For example, if someone asks if a concert will be sold out, you might respond, “It’s a dead cert, tickets have been sold out for weeks.”
- In a discussion about a political election, someone might say, “With the current polls, it’s a dead cert that the incumbent will win.”
- If someone asks if a specific team will make it to the finals, you might say, “It’s a dead cert, they’ve been dominating the playoffs.”
41. It’s bound to happen
This phrase suggests that something is highly likely or certain to occur in the future.
- For example, “With their talent and hard work, they’re bound to succeed.”
- A person might say, “I’ve been practicing for hours, so it’s bound to happen soon.”
- Another might comment, “Given the current circumstances, it’s bound to happen sooner or later.”
42. It’s just a matter of time
This phrase implies that something is expected to happen, but the exact timing is uncertain.
- For instance, “She’s so talented, it’s just a matter of time before she gets discovered.”
- A person might say, “With the way things are going, it’s just a matter of time until they reach their goal.”
- Another might comment, “The evidence is mounting, so it’s just a matter of time before the truth comes out.”
43. It’s written in the stars
This expression suggests that something is predestined or predetermined to happen.
- For example, “Their love story was written in the stars.”
- A person might say, “I believe that everything happens for a reason. It’s all written in the stars.”
- Another might comment, “According to astrology, our personalities and destinies are written in the stars.”
44. It’s a foregone conclusion
This phrase indicates that a particular outcome is already assumed or expected to happen.
- For instance, “Based on their previous performances, it’s a foregone conclusion that they will win.”
- A person might say, “Given the circumstances, it’s a foregone conclusion that they will be found guilty.”
- Another might comment, “With their track record, it’s a foregone conclusion that they will succeed.”
45. In the works
This phrase suggests that something is currently being planned or worked on, indicating the possibility of it happening in the future.
- For example, “They have a new album in the works.”
- A person might say, “I can’t give you all the details yet, but there’s something exciting in the works.”
- Another might comment, “The project is still in the works, but we’re making progress.”
46. In the pipeline
This phrase is used to describe something that is currently being planned or developed and is likely to happen in the future.
- For example, “The new software update is in the pipeline and will be released next month.”
- A manager might say, “We have some exciting projects in the pipeline for the upcoming year.”
- A friend might ask, “Do you have any new job opportunities in the pipeline?”
47. In the offing
This phrase is used to indicate that something is likely to happen or be available soon.
- For instance, “A promotion could be in the offing for you.”
- A colleague might say, “There are some exciting changes in the offing for our department.”
- A sports fan might say, “A victory is in the offing for our team in tonight’s game.”
48. It’s possible
This phrase is used to express that there is a chance or likelihood of something happening.
- For example, “It’s possible that we’ll have a snowstorm tomorrow.”
- A friend might say, “It’s possible that I’ll be able to join you for dinner tonight.”
- A teacher might tell a student, “It’s possible that you’ll need to study for the exam.”
49. On the cards
This phrase is used to indicate that something is likely to happen or be planned in the future.
- For instance, “A promotion is on the cards for you.”
- A colleague might say, “There are some exciting projects on the cards for our team.”
- A friend might say, “A vacation is on the cards for next month.”
50. It’s on the table
This phrase is used to indicate that something is currently being considered or discussed.
- For example, “A salary increase is on the table for negotiation.”
- A colleague might say, “There are some new proposals on the table for our team to review.”
- A friend might ask, “Is a road trip on the table for this summer?”
51. It’s not beyond the realms of possibility
This phrase is used to express that something is not completely out of the realm of possibility or that it is still possible, although it may be unlikely.
- For example, “It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that we could win the lottery.”
- A person might say, “It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that we could find a cure for cancer.”
- In a discussion about potential career opportunities, someone might say, “It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that I could become a successful entrepreneur.”
52. It’s not impossible
This phrase is used to indicate that something is not completely impossible or that there is still a chance for it to happen, although it may be unlikely.
- For instance, “It’s not impossible for us to climb Mount Everest.”
- A person might say, “It’s not impossible for us to find a solution to this problem.”
- In a conversation about achieving a difficult goal, someone might say, “It’s not impossible for me to become a professional athlete.”
53. It’s not inconceivable
This phrase suggests that something is not completely inconceivable or that it is still possible, although it may be unlikely or difficult to imagine.
- For example, “It’s not inconceivable that we could travel to Mars in the future.”
- A person might say, “It’s not inconceivable that we could find a way to reverse climate change.”
- In a discussion about technological advancements, someone might say, “It’s not inconceivable that we could have self-driving cars in the near future.”
54. It’s not out of the realm of possibility
This phrase indicates that something is not completely out of the realm of possibility or that there is still a chance for it to happen, although it may be unlikely.
- For instance, “It’s not out of the realm of possibility for us to win the championship.”
- A person might say, “It’s not out of the realm of possibility for us to discover a cure for Alzheimer’s.”
- In a conversation about achieving a challenging goal, someone might say, “It’s not out of the realm of possibility for me to start my own business.”
55. It’s not outside the realm of possibility
This phrase suggests that something is not completely outside the realm of possibility or that there is still a chance for it to happen, although it may be unlikely.
- For example, “It’s not outside the realm of possibility for us to find a solution to world hunger.”
- A person might say, “It’s not outside the realm of possibility for us to achieve world peace.”
- In a discussion about scientific advancements, someone might say, “It’s not outside the realm of possibility for us to discover a cure for cancer.”
56. It’s not beyond the bounds of possibility
This phrase is used to express that something is within the realm of possibility or can potentially happen. It suggests that although something may seem unlikely, it is still feasible.
- For example, someone might say, “It’s not beyond the bounds of possibility that we could win the lottery.”
- In a discussion about potential solutions to a problem, a person might suggest, “It’s not beyond the bounds of possibility that we could find a cure.”
- Another might say, “While it’s a long shot, it’s not beyond the bounds of possibility that we could meet our sales targets.”