What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contingence
Example
The success of the project is contingent on securing funding. [contingent: adjective]
Example
There is a contingence plan in place in case of an emergency. [contingence: noun]
possibility
Example
There is a possibility of rain tomorrow. [possibility: noun]
Example
It's possible that we will finish the project early. [possible: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Possibility is more commonly used than contingence in everyday language. Possibility is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contingence is less common and more formal, often used in legal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contingence and possibility?
Contingence is typically associated with a more formal tone, while possibility is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.