1
not usually used before a noun
: able to be done
It simply isn't possible.
Would it be possible for me to use your phone? [=may I use your phone?]
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.
I like to go swimming whenever possible. [=whenever there is an opportunity to swim]
Do your best to come home from work early, if (at all) possible. [=if it can be done]
Come as soon/quickly as (humanly) possible. [=as soon as you can]
2
: able to happen or exist
We need to plan against possible dangers. [=dangers that may occur]
The weather report warned of possible thunderstorms tonight.
Thunderstorms are possible but not probable tonight.
The highest possible score is 100.
How possible [=likely] is rain today?
What possible good can it do to argue?
He is in the worst possible situation.
It is possible that life exists on other planets.
3
always used before a noun
: able or suited to be or to become something specified
I found a possible site for a camp.
She suggested a possible solution to the problem.
4
: reasonable to believe : perhaps true
It's possible that your computer has a virus.
Robbery is one possible motive for the murder.
plural possibles
1
: someone or something that might be suitable or acceptable for a particular job, purpose, etc.
We have two possibles for the job.
2
: something that can be done
Finishing the job today is not outside the realm of the possible. [=is not impossible]
Cite this Entry
“Possible.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/possible. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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