if it were possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'if it were possible' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used when you are talking about something you wish could happen, but you know is probably not possible. For example, "I wish I could go on vacation right now, if it were possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If it were possible.

The New York Times

As if it were possible to learn on your own.

The New Yorker

If it were possible, I'd have him back tomorrow.

The Guardian - Sport

If it were possible, trust me, I'd love it.

The Guardian - Opinion

And if it were possible, would it be desirable?

The Economist

WHAT if it were possible to get rid of malaria?

The Economist

"It may have been a fact-finding mission to see if it were possible.

The New York Times

If it were possible, I would like to live forever, and to face every woman.

The New York Times

If it were possible to erase his name from the teamsheet then it would be done".

The Guardian - Sport

Many smaller players would create distinctive, local offers if it were possible, hugely boosting consumer choice.

The Guardian

If it were possible, what would the benefit be of negotiating with a group like ISIS?

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if it were possible" to introduce a hypothetical scenario, often to express a desire or condition that is unlikely or currently unattainable.

Common error

Avoid using "if it were possible" in situations where a real, achievable condition is being discussed. This phrase implies a level of unlikelihood or impossibility that should match the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if it were possible" functions as a conditional clause, setting up a hypothetical scenario. It introduces a condition that, if met, would lead to a particular outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if it were possible" is a versatile conditional clause used to introduce hypothetical scenarios, often expressing a desire for something unlikely to happen. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it leans towards formality. When using this phrase, ensure the context accurately reflects the unlikelihood or impossibility implied. Consider alternatives such as "were it feasible" or "in an ideal world" to subtly adjust the nuance. Keep in mind that "if it were possible" is best reserved for situations where the condition is genuinely hypothetical, as mixing it with real conditions may create confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were it feasible

Formalizes the condition with a more concise structure.

if circumstances allowed

Highlights the dependency on external conditions.

hypothetically speaking

Explicitly introduces a hypothetical consideration.

should it be a viable option

Focuses on the practicality and feasibility of the condition.

were it within our power

Emphasizes the limitation of control or ability.

assuming it was within the realm of possibility

Adds emphasis on the hypothetical nature and broadens the scope.

if such a thing were attainable

Highlights the potential difficulty or unlikelihood of achieving the condition.

in an ideal world

Shifts the focus to an aspirational, unrealistic context.

given the chance

Simplifies the condition to a matter of opportunity.

were such a thing even conceivable

Expresses doubt about the very idea being considered.

FAQs

How can I use "if it were possible" in a sentence?

Use "if it were possible" to introduce a hypothetical or unlikely condition. For example, "If it were possible, I would travel the world."

What are some alternatives to "if it were possible"?

You can use alternatives like "were it feasible", "assuming it was within the realm of possibility", or "in an ideal world" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "if it was possible" grammatically correct?

While "if it was possible" is sometimes used, "if it were possible" is generally preferred in formal writing when discussing hypothetical or counterfactual situations, as it employs the subjunctive mood.

What is the difference between "if it is possible" and "if it were possible"?

"If it is possible" suggests a real possibility, while "if it were possible" implies a hypothetical or unlikely scenario. For example, "If it is possible, I will attend the meeting" vs. "If it were possible, I would eliminate all suffering."