possible

[ pos-uh-buhl ]

adjective

1. that may or can be, exist, happen, be done, be used, etc.:

   a disease with no possible cure.

2. that may be true or may be the case, as something concerning which one has no knowledge to the contrary:

   It is possible that he has already gone.

possible

/ ˈpɒsɪbəl /

adjective

1. capable of existing, taking place, or proving true without contravention of any natural law
2. capable of being achieved

   it is not possible to finish in three weeks

3. having potential or capabilities for favourable use or development

   the idea is a possible money-spinner

4. that may or may not happen or have happened; feasible but less than probable

   it is possible that man will live on Mars

5. logic (of a statement, formula, etc) capable of being true under some interpretation, or in some circumstances. Usual symbol: Mp or ◇ p , where p is the given expression

noun

1. another word for possibility

Usage

Although it is very common to talk about something being very possible or more possible, these uses are generally thought to be incorrect, since possible describes an absolute state, and therefore something can only be possible or not possible: it is very likely (not very possible ) that he will resign; it has now become easier (not more possible ) to obtain an entry visa

Other Words From

• non·possi·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of possible¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Latin possibilis “that may be done,” equivalent to poss(e) “to be able” ( posse ) + -ibilis -ible

Word History and Origins

Origin of possible¹

C14: from Latin possibilis that may be, from posse to be able, have power

Idioms and Phrases

see as far as possible ; as soon as possible .

Synonym Study

Possible, feasible, practicable refer to that which may come about or take place without prevention by serious obstacles. That which is possible is naturally able or even likely to happen, other circumstances being equal: Discovery of a new source of plutonium may be possible. Feasible refers to the ease with which something can be done and implies a high degree of desirability for doing it: This plan is the most feasible. Practicable applies to that which can be done with the means that are at hand and with conditions as they are: We ascended the slope as far as was practicable.

Example Sentences

One possible explanation is that these drugs increase the risk of microbleeds in the brain, which are associated with cognitive decline.

From Science Daily

Early chatter around the lineup has Post Malone, Lady Gaga, Travis Scott and Green Day as possible headliners and top guests.

From Los Angeles Times

The information contained in these consumer profiles is becoming so detailed, however, that when paired with other data sets that include location information, it could be possible to target specific individuals, Keserű said.

From Los Angeles Times

While it's possible that an exporter in a foreign country compensates the importer for these taxes — such as via rebates or lower prices — there's no requirement to do so.

From Salon

For something to be deemed a miracle it typically requires an act seen to be beyond what is possible in nature - such as through the sudden healing of a person deemed to be near-death.

From BBC

Related Words

• achievable
• available
• conceivable
• desirable
• feasible
• imaginable
• potential
• probable
• viable