possible

adjective

pos·​si·​ble ˈpä-sə-bəl How to pronounce possible (audio)
1
a
: 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
2
a
: 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
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

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.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their identifications were made possible by advanced DNA analysis of remains recovered from the attack, along with family outreach, said the OCME. David Chiu, People.com, 8 Aug. 2025 Look for manufacturers that ship parts into the country as few times as possible, and avoid manufacturers whose process depends on parts and goods crossing the border multiple times. Reco McCambry, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025 Also, likely aiding in the suspect's speedy apprehension, according to Bumgarner, were the FBI-style protocols soldiers are trained to follow, including quick evacuation, barricading if escape is not possible, and taking swift action to curb imminent danger. Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 7 Aug. 2025 Do all that's possible to care for her and keep her at Monique's home. Marc Snegg, Time, 7 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for possible

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of possible was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Possible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/possible. Accessed 22 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

possible

adjective
pos·​si·​ble ˈpäs-ə-bəl How to pronounce possible (audio)
1
: being something that can be done or brought about
a task possible only to skilled workers
2
: being something that may or may not occur
plan against possible dangers
3
: able or fitted to be or to become
a possible site for a camp

More from Merriam-Webster on possible

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