possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something can happen or be done, often in contexts discussing feasibility or potential outcomes. Example: "We need to explore all possible solutions to this problem before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We will also ensure that if there are any lessons to be learned, they are shared as soon as possible.

The Guardian

It is possible.

The New York Times

Engineers are on site and we aim to resume services as quickly as possible.

The Guardian

"Is it possible?

The New York Times

We owe him a great deal and wish him every possible success.

The Guardian

That is why we will propose a 'double lock', meaning that exit from the European Union would only be possible if all UK nations agreed.

The Guardian

Related: What are the possible solutions to the Syria conflict?

The Guardian

Agriculture minister Brid Rodgers, who has been acclaimed for her handling of a difficult government portfolio, has also been touted as possible candidate, as well as South Down MP Eddie McGrady.

The Guardian

We take any complaint seriously and will aim to investigate and respond as quickly as possible and in any event within 28 days.

The Guardian

I have instructed that they be relocated to Christmas Island as soon as possible".

The Guardian

In theory, it is possible that gentle nudges will turn into intrusive diktats and the nanny state will drain individual responsibility.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "possible" to indicate that something is not certain but can happen or be achieved. For emphasis, you can pair it with adverbs like "highly" or "barely" to adjust the degree of likelihood.

Common error

Don't use "possible" when you mean "probable". "Possible" indicates that something can happen, while "probable" means it is likely to happen. Understand the difference to choose the appropriate word.

Linguistic Context

The word "possible" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate capability or potential. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes something that is able to happen or be done. Examples show its use in contexts ranging from feasibility to potential outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "possible" is a versatile adjective used to express that something is capable of happening or being achieved. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts. The most common uses are in the realms of News & Media, Formal & Business writing and Science, but its register is neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of communication. To avoid common errors, remember to distinguish "possible" from "probable" and ensure it is used as an adjective rather than confusing it with the adverb "possibly". By understanding its nuances and practical applications, you can effectively use "possible" to convey potentiality and capability in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feasible

Implies something is capable of being done practically.

viable

Suggests the capacity to develop or function successfully.

achievable

Highlights the capacity to reach a desired result.

attainable

Focuses on the ability to obtain or acquire something.

conceivable

Indicates that something is capable of being imagined or believed.

imaginable

Highlights the capacity to be imagined.

potential

Refers to something capable of developing into a reality.

likely

Indicates a high probability of occurring.

within the realm of possibility

Emphasizes that something is not impossible, even if unlikely.

within reach

Suggests that something can be achieved with effort.

FAQs

How to use "possible" in a sentence?

Use "possible" to describe something that could happen or be achieved, such as "It is "possible" to learn a new language at any age" or "We need to explore all "possible" solutions".

What can I say instead of "possible"?

You can use alternatives like "feasible", "viable", or "achievable" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "possible to do" or "possibly to do"?

"Possible to do" is correct. "Possibly" is an adverb and modifies verbs, while "possible" is an adjective that modifies nouns. For example, "It is "possible to do"" is correct.

What's the difference between "possible" and "potential"?

"Possible" indicates something that can happen or be achieved, while "potential" refers to something that has the capacity to develop into something. For example, a ""possible" solution" is one that could work, while a "potential solution" has the capacity to become a good solution.