whether it is conceivable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "whether it is conceivable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the possibility or plausibility of an idea or situation. Example: "We need to consider whether it is conceivable that life exists on other planets."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The best tests for whether a scenario is possible are whether it is conceivable, logically consistent, and posited in serious scientific theories.

SEP

Plato's arguments lead to the question of whether it is conceivable that all our predications are, in this particular sense, relative.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But the justices seemed divided over whether it was conceivable that the defendants here created or condoned a policy rooted in unlawful discrimination.

The New York Times

This might be anything from what Hemingway would have had for breakfast in 1930s Florida to whether it's conceivable that he would have made love to his mistress on a train from Key West to Jacksonville.

The Guardian - Books

It remains to be shown whether long lasting effects can be achieved, because it is conceivable that compensatory feedback systems need more time to become effective.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Although it is unclear whether and how such findings are relevant for human disease, it is conceivable that there may be a disease stage at which new bone formation occurs without much actual inflammation; this, however, remains to be shown.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

It is unknown whether the temperature specificity of TH is conserved in invertebrates, but it is conceivable that TH pathways evolved their sensitivity to temperature because both play such major roles in development [ 47- 49].

BMC Biology

It is conceivable that it might.

The Economist

Wilderness experts think it is conceivable.

The New York Times

It is conceivable that the election could become one in which student candidates campaign on platforms that focus on whether or not they will pray if elected.

The New York Times

Indeed it is conceivable that neither of them will be.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "whether it is conceivable" with a 'that' clause to specify the situation or outcome being evaluated for possibility, such as "whether it is conceivable that the project can be completed on time".

Common error

Avoid using "whether it is conceivable" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "is it possible?" or "do you think...?" are often more appropriate and natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "whether it is conceivable" functions as an interrogative clause, introducing a question about the possibility or plausibility of a given scenario. It is often used to prompt consideration of potential outcomes or to evaluate the feasibility of a particular idea. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "whether it is conceivable" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for exploring possibilities and assessing plausibility. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English writing. While versatile, it tends to gravitate towards formal and scientific settings. For more casual conversations, simpler alternatives like "is it possible?" might be more appropriate. The phrase's strength lies in prompting thoughtful consideration of various scenarios, encouraging a deeper dive into potential outcomes. Remember to clarify the context when using this phrase to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

whether it is imaginable

Replaces "conceivable" with "imaginable", focusing on the ability to form a mental image or concept.

whether it is thinkable

Substitutes "conceivable" with "thinkable", emphasizing the capacity to consider or contemplate something.

whether it is plausible

Replaces "conceivable" with "plausible", shifting the focus to the apparent reasonableness or credibility of something.

whether it is possible

A more direct and common alternative, simply asking about the possibility of something.

whether it is feasible

Focuses on the practicality and workability of an idea or plan.

whether it is likely

Shifts the emphasis to the probability of something occurring.

if it can be envisioned

Focuses on the ability to visualize or foresee something in the future.

if it can be contemplated

Emphasizes the act of deeply considering or reflecting upon something.

whether it stands to reason

Focuses on whether something is logical or makes sense based on available information.

if it holds water

An idiomatic expression that questions the soundness or validity of an idea or argument.

FAQs

How can I use "whether it is conceivable" in a sentence?

You can use "whether it is conceivable" to introduce a question about the possibility or plausibility of a scenario. For instance, "We must consider whether it is conceivable that this approach will yield better results."

What are some alternatives to "whether it is conceivable"?

Alternatives include "whether it is possible", "whether it is plausible", or "whether it is feasible", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "whether it is conceivable" formal or informal?

"Whether it is conceivable" leans towards a more formal register. In informal contexts, consider using phrases like "is it possible?" or "do you think...?".

What's the difference between "whether it is conceivable" and "whether it is possible"?

"Whether it is conceivable" suggests a deeper level of consideration about the potential for something to occur or exist, while "whether it is possible" is a more general inquiry about possibility. The former often implies a need for imagination or abstract thinking.