Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective possible differ from other similar words?

The words feasible and practicable are common synonyms of possible. While all three words 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

Where would feasible be a reasonable alternative to possible?

Although the words feasible and possible have much in common, feasible applies to what is likely to work or be useful in attaining the end desired.

commercially feasible for mass production

In what contexts can practicable take the place of possible?

In some situations, the words practicable and possible are roughly equivalent. However, practicable implies that something may be effected by available means or under current conditions.

a solution that is not practicable in the time available

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of possible This is where strategic thinking becomes impactful, as leaders start operating collectively with others to redefine what is possible. Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 17 May 2025 Anything that is possible to make international cinema more accessible is necessary and welcome. Michelle Lee, People.com, 17 May 2025 But before the summer was over, the other hero of the tale would prove to be the reconciliation process that was making the legislative win possible — a process with its origins in quite a different era of relations between Congress and the president. Ron Elving, NPR, 17 May 2025 The question the film ultimately asks is whether a third way is at all possible, leading to a gripping final combat that’s much less a knockout than a bitter victory. Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for possible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for possible
Adjective
  • The court based its decision on agreement with the other two arguments: Metro’s failure to address feasible ways to mitigate the impacts of construction noise and to properly consult with a land conservancy that serves as a trustee to parkland over which the gondola would soar.
    Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2025
  • Any combination or variation of the above might be feasible.
    Martin Shenkman, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The goal has been to identify potential fraud and work to prevent exploitation of vulnerable and older adult members.
    Susan Tompor, USA Today, 15 May 2025
  • Authorities initially suspected potential mafia involvement, due to the extreme nature of the crime scene and José's business connections.
    Rachel Treisman, NPR, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • While significant technological and logistical hurdles remain, pioneering individuals and organizations are already proving that data in space is not just possible, but viable.
    Michael Wu, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
  • Financial advisers to the company concluded that selling or closing all stores was the most viable strategy and said efforts to keep stores open through a sale had failed to meet necessary thresholds from potential buyers, Newsweek previously reported.
    Jenna deJong, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Possible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possible. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

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