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 California needs regulations that make this possible. Tracy Yochum, Sacramento Bee, 29 Jan. 2025 As a Yang Earth sign, the Dog has the patience to take it one small step at a time, but quantum leaps are also possible! Skyler Caruso, People.com, 29 Jan. 2025 Sources familiar with the probe say SEC investigators are looking at what Ruiz’s company represented to investors about its value and other possible securities violations. Ben Wieder and, Miami Herald, 17 Jan. 2025 Implement security measures: Protect the recordings by saving them in a secure location and utilizing encryption where possible. Jason Foodman, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for possible 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for possible
Adjective
  • The senior officials and worker bees in the vast U.S. foreign policy apparatus need an opportunity to assess the state of the world and determine what is and isn’t feasible before funds and energy are expended on a way forward.
    Daniel DePetris, Chicago Tribune, 28 Jan. 2025
  • After the sale, some family members pressed DAMAC to allow a memorial on part of the site, but the developer said that wasn’t feasible.
    Aaron Leibowitz, Miami Herald, 28 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Bee journalists also uncovered apparent breakdowns in communication between the different police agencies that are investigating this potential homicide.
    Jason Pohl, Sacramento Bee, 26 Jan. 2025
  • Derailing Washington’s potential go-ahead drive, a first-quarter fumble near midfield was caused by linebacker Zack Baun and cornerback Cooper DeJean.
    Ryan Finley, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Are options like gradual transition to retirement viable?
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 25 Jan. 2025
  • Without a viable shot creator next to Curry, a 6-foot-3 guard has to do it all on offense.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, The Mercury News, 24 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near possible

Cite this Entry

“Possible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possible. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on possible

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