1 possible | Definition of possible
Logo
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

possible

adjective
pos·​si·​ble | \ ˈpä-sÉ™-bÉ™l How to pronounce possible (audio) \

Definition of possible

1a : being within the limits of ability, capacity, or realization a possible but difficult task
b : being what may be conceived, be done, or occur according to nature, custom, or manners the best possible care the worst possible circumstance
2a : being something that may or may not occur a possible surprise visit
b : being something that may or may not be true or actual possible explanation
3 : having an indicated potential a possible housing site
Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about possible

Keep scrolling for more

Choose the Right Synonym for possible

possible, practicable, feasible mean capable of being realized. possible implies that a thing may certainly exist or occur given the proper conditions. a possible route up the west face of the mountain practicable implies that something may be effected by available means or under current conditions. a solution that is not practicable in the time available feasible applies to what is likely to work or be useful in attaining the end desired. commercially feasible for mass production

possible and likely mean capable of becoming true or of actually happening. possible is used when something may happen or exist under the proper conditions. It is possible that you may get rich. likely is used when chances are good that something will actually happen but there is no proof it will. It is likely that the storm will cause damage.

Examples of possible in a Sentence

Advances in medicine have made it possible for people to live longer. It is possible that she decided not to join us. We tried to spend as little money as possible. It is not physically possible to do everything you have planned in one day. The weather report warned of possible thunderstorms tonight. Thunderstorms are possible but not probable tonight. The highest possible score is 100. What possible good can it do to argue? He is in the worst possible situation. It is possible that life exists on other planets.
See More

Recent Examples on the Web

 Apologize to his teammates on Friday after facing a possible suspension. — Sean Gregory, Time, "On NFL Kickoff, the New England Patriots Win Again," 8 Sep. 2019 The best strategy is not to touch this money if possible. — Russ Wiles, azcentral, "How to make your retirement earnings recession-proof," 8 Sep. 2019 Symptoms often begin with breathing problems, fatigue and chest pain, spiraling into gastrointestinal issues, and the possible need for mechanical ventilation. — Fox News, "California lawmakers retreat on hookah ban citing 'Middle East cultural tradition'," 8 Sep. 2019 Avoid betting the moneyline in this contest, if possible. — Marcus Mosher, USA TODAY Sportsbook Wire, "McNeese State Cowboys at Oklahoma State Cowboys odds, picks and best bets," 7 Sep. 2019 As part of the architectural and engineering services, the firm will also explore the feasibility of adding a central plant to prepare for any possible future buildings, according to Burdine. — Mary Grace Keller, baltimoresun.com/maryland/carroll, "Carroll County to upgrade detention center cameras, receives body armor grant," 7 Sep. 2019 Understanding of genetics has made possible dramatic progress on some of these diseases. — San Diego Union-Tribune, "MDA muscle walk celebrates progress, but much work remains ahead," 7 Sep. 2019 Federal and local officials are investigating a possible link to e-cigarettes in more than 200 reports of pulmonary disease from 25 states. — The Christian Science Monitor, "Africa rises for immigrant rights," 6 Sep. 2019 If there’s air in your lungs and grass under your feet, there is still time to live your best possible life. — Peter San Nicolas, Ramona Sentinel, "Ramona’s Trainer: You have been entrusted with much," 6 Sep. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'possible.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

See More

First Known Use of possible

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

History and Etymology for possible

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin possibilis, from posse to be able, from potis, pote able + esse to be — more at potent, is

Keep scrolling for more

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for possible

possible

adjective
How to pronounce possible (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of possible

: able to be done
: able to happen or exist
: able or suited to be or to become something specified

See the full definition for possible in the English Language Learners Dictionary

possible

adjective
pos·​si·​ble | \ ˈpä-sÉ™-bÉ™l How to pronounce possible (audio) \

Kids Definition of possible

1 : able to be done Call whenever possible.
2 : able to happen or exist A storm is possible.
3 : able or suited to be or to become I have a possible solution.

Keep scrolling for more

More from Merriam-Webster on possible

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for possible

Spanish Central: Translation of possible

Nglish: Translation of possible for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of possible for Arabic Speakers

WORD OF THE DAY

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!