Possible: meaning, definitions and examples

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possible

 

[ ˈpɑːsəbl ]

Adjective / Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

in a positive sense

Capable of being done or achieved; feasible. Having the necessary qualities or abilities for something.

Synonyms

achievable, attainable, feasible, practicable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
possible

Used when something can happen or be done. No indication of effort or difficulty.

  • It is possible to finish the project by next week.
  • Is it possible to meet later in the afternoon?
feasible

Refers to something that is practical and possible to do, especially after considering the necessary effort, time, or resources.

  • The plan is feasible given the current budget.
  • Is it feasible to implement this technology within the year?
achievable

Refers to something that can be accomplished with effort, planning, and sometimes persistence.

  • Setting small, achievable goals can lead to success.
  • His dream of becoming a doctor is achievable with hard work.
attainable

Implies something can be reached, typically referring to goals or objectives. Usually suggests that it might take time and effort.

  • Long-term success is attainable with consistent effort.
  • Their business targets are ambitious but attainable.
practicable

Means capable of being done or put into practice successfully, often referring to actions or methods.

  • A practicable solution to the problem is needed.
  • Are these new policies practicable in the workplace?

Examples of usage

  • It's possible to finish the project on time if we work together efficiently.
  • With hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a conditional sense

Used to express that something could happen or be true under certain circumstances.

Examples of usage

  • If you study hard, it is possible that you will pass the exam.
  • She might possibly come to the party if she finishes her work on time.

Translations

Translations of the word "possible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 possível

🇮🇳 संभव

🇩🇪 möglich

🇮🇩 mungkin

🇺🇦 можливий

🇵🇱 możliwy

🇯🇵 可能な (かのうな)

🇫🇷 possible

🇪🇸 posible

🇹🇷 mümkün

🇰🇷 가능한 (가능하다)

🇸🇦 ممكن

🇨🇿 možný

🇸🇰 možný

🇨🇳 可能 (kěnéng)

🇸🇮 mogoč

🇮🇸 mögulegt

🇰🇿 мүмкін

🇬🇪 შესაძლებელი (shesadzlebelia)

🇦🇿 mümkün

🇲🇽 posible

Etymology

The word 'possible' originated from the Latin word 'possibilis', meaning 'that can be done'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, the usage of 'possible' has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings, reflecting the diverse ways in which the concept of possibility can be expressed.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #169, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.