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 Word Forms

• nonpossible 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

Evie, who's 16, says the arch is a stark reminder of possible dangers: "You think about what it's there for and what children do bring to school, and you never know."

Read more on BBC

Despite the encouraging results of the mouse study, Otton points out that it is not yet possible to determine a safe and effective dose of green tea for humans.

Read more on Science Daily

Goodrays said it wasn't "offering a panacea", but that it was "certainly offering a healthier alternative" with the "best efficacy possible".

Read more on BBC

Since Gabriel began authoring food-related legislation, the rise of the controversial Make American Healthy Again movement has spotlighted issues related to dyes and other additives, and their possible links to a variety of health issues.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Fire experts say it’s possible for a blaze to rekindle days and even months in some environments after an initial fire is thought to be extinguished, though it’s not typical.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• achievable www.thesaurus.com
• available 
• conceivable 
• desirable 
• feasible 
• imaginable 
• potential 
• probable 
• viable