Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective possible differ from other similar words?

The words feasible and practicable are common synonyms of possible. While all three words mean "capable of being realized," possible implies that a thing may certainly exist or occur given the proper conditions.

a possible route up the west face of the mountain

Where would feasible be a reasonable alternative to possible?

Although the words feasible and possible have much in common, feasible applies to what is likely to work or be useful in attaining the end desired.

commercially feasible for mass production

In what contexts can practicable take the place of possible?

In some situations, the words practicable and possible are roughly equivalent. However, practicable implies that something may be effected by available means or under current conditions.

a solution that is not practicable in the time available

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for possible
Adjective
  • In an ideal world, our pets could come everywhere with us—but taking a cat on a two-week vacation to a hot destination isn't exactly feasible.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Shifting production to the U.S., one of Trump's goals in imposing tariffs on China and almost every other country in the world, is not feasible, says Jami Warner, executive director of the American Christmas Tree Association.
    Andrew Silver and Casey Hall, USA Today, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • National organizations representing school boards and superintendents, which have not taken a position on the books being used in Maryland, warn about the potential wider impact of a court decision agreeing with the parents.
    Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025
  • The suspect faces potential murder charges and other counts stemming from the attack.
    Bill Hutchinson, ABC News, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • However, when asked if that meant Game 1’s starting lineup may not be viable in this series, Rivers shut down the notion and suggested that the starters need to be more disciplined and execute better offensively.
    Eric Nehm, New York Times, 20 Apr. 2025
  • As an entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in starting, running and advising companies in the software and life sciences sector, his role is to support the university’s emerging entrepreneurs, equipping them build viable companies.
    Trevor Clawson, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Possible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possible. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

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