it is not possible to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not possible to" is correct and can be used in written English.
Example: "It is not possible to predict the outcome of the game with 100% accuracy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is not possible to forget.

The New York Times

It is not possible to undertake both courses simultaneously.

The New York Times

"It is not possible to prove a negative.

The Guardian - Sport

Of course, it is not possible to put theology aside.

The New Yorker

It is not possible to herd animals here any more".

The Guardian

It is not possible to guarantee complete sterility, he said.

The New York Times

It is not possible to comment on current court cases.

The Guardian

It is not possible to say what will happen next.

The Guardian

It is not possible to win every time".

The New York Times - Sports

It is not possible to ignore Miller's achievements.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is not possible to stop erosion completely," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is not possible to", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the action or outcome impossible. Providing specific reasons strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not possible to" when the situation merely presents a significant challenge rather than an absolute impossibility. Consider using phrases like "it is difficult to" or "it is unlikely to" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not possible to" functions as an expression of impossibility or inability. Ludwig shows its widespread use in declaring that something cannot be done, achieved, or is beyond the realm of feasibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not possible to" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate impossibility or the lack of feasibility. According to Ludwig, it appears frequently in both scientific and news contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. When using this phrase, ensure you provide clear context about the reasons behind the impossibility to strengthen your statement. Remember to avoid overstating limitations and consider alternatives like "it is unlikely to" when the situation presents a challenge rather than an absolute barrier.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is unachievable to

Emphasizes the lack of possibility due to inherent limitations or insurmountable obstacles.

it is infeasible to

Focuses on the impracticality or lack of viability of a certain action or outcome.

it is unattainable to

Highlights the impossibility of reaching a particular goal or state.

it cannot be done

A more direct and emphatic way of stating that something is impossible.

it is out of the question

Indicates that something is completely unacceptable or not worth considering.

it is beyond the realm of possibility

Stresses the extreme unlikelihood or impossibility of something occurring.

it is not an option

Focuses on the lack of availability or suitability of a particular choice or action.

it is simply not an option

Similar to "it is not an option" but adds emphasis to the lack of suitability.

it is not viable

Highlights that a certain choice or action is not sustainable or practical.

it is a lost cause

Suggests that trying to achieve something is futile or hopeless.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not possible to" in a sentence?

Use "it is not possible to" when you want to express that something cannot be done or achieved. For example, "it is not possible to predict the future with certainty".

What are some alternatives to saying "it is not possible to"?

You can use phrases like "it is unachievable to", "it is infeasible to", or "it cannot be done" depending on the context.

Is there a more formal way to say "it is not possible to"?

Yes, in more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "it is untenable to" or "it is inadmissible to" depending on the particular meaning you want to convey.

When should I use "it is unlikely to" instead of "it is not possible to"?

Use "it is unlikely to" when something is improbable but still conceivable, while "it is not possible to" indicates an absolute barrier. The choice depends on whether there's any chance, however slim, of the event occurring. Example: "it is unlikely to rain".