it wasn't possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it wasn't possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something could not be done or achieved in a particular situation. Example: "I tried to complete the project on time, but due to unforeseen circumstances, it wasn't possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it wasn't possible.

The New Yorker

It wasn't possible before that," she said.

The New York Times

Because 20 years ago it wasn't possible.

The New York Times - Sports

I tried, but it wasn't possible.

The Guardian - Sport

"It wasn't possible to win clean".

The Guardian - Sport

It wasn't possible... Or was it?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"But all things considered, it wasn't possible.

The New York Times - Sports

It wasn't possible to rely just on the men.

The New York Times

It wasn't possible or necessary to change everything.

The New Yorker

"Unfortunately it wasn't possible to identify them all".

Independent

It wasn't possible he'd do something like this.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it wasn't possible" to clearly and directly state that something could not be achieved due to specific constraints or limitations. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "it wasn't possible" without providing context or reasons. Always clarify why something was not possible to maintain clarity and credibility. For instance, instead of saying "It wasn't possible", specify "It wasn't possible to meet the deadline due to unforeseen technical issues".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it wasn't possible" functions as a statement of impossibility or inability. It serves to explain that a particular action, event, or outcome could not occur due to certain circumstances or limitations. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it wasn't possible" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to express that something could not be achieved or done. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for both formal and informal communication, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, clarity is key: provide context to explain why something was not possible. Consider alternatives like "it was not feasible" or "it could not be done" for nuanced expression. Ludwig examples show diverse scenarios, emphasizing the phrase's broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was not feasible

Replaces "possible" with "feasible", emphasizing practicality and achievability.

it could not be done

Uses a more direct and simpler phrasing to express the impossibility.

it was unachievable

Focuses on the lack of attainability of a goal or task.

it proved unattainable

Highlights that the impossibility became evident over time or after attempts.

it was out of the question

Indicates that something was completely unacceptable or not to be considered.

it was beyond reach

Emphasizes that something was not within the capacity or resources to achieve.

it was simply not an option

States that something was not a viable choice or alternative.

circumstances prevented it

Highlights external factors that made something impossible.

it was beyond our capabilities

Focuses on the lack of internal resources or skills to accomplish something.

it was doomed to fail

Suggests an inevitable lack of success from the outset.

FAQs

How can I use "it wasn't possible" in a sentence?

You can use "it wasn't possible" to explain why something could not be done. For example, "I tried to attend the meeting, but "it wasn't possible" because of a prior engagement".

What are some alternatives to "it wasn't possible"?

Alternatives include "it was not feasible", "it could not be done", or "it was unachievable", depending on the specific context.

Is "it wasn't possible" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it wasn't possible" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used in both spoken and written language.

What is the level of formality of "it wasn't possible"?

"It wasn't possible" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its straightforward nature makes it appropriate for various settings.