What is possible? Pronunciation and usage in English

possible means . Learn how to pronounce and use possible through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of possible

possibleadjective

/ˈpɒsɪbl/
Definition & pronunciation of possible

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "possible" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "Pos": This part is relatively straightforward. It sounds like "pos" as in "post" (like a postal worker). It's a short, sharp "p" sound followed by a "z" sound.

2. The "s" Sound:

  • This is where it gets tricky. The "s" in "possible" isn't pronounced as a regular "s" like in "sun." Instead, it's a voiceless "z" sound. This is the most important part to get right.
    • Think of the "z" in "zoo." That's the same sound.
    • It's a quick, light "z" sound.

3. The "-ible" Ending:

  • "-ible": This part is pronounced like "ihl." It's a short "i" sound followed by "uhl."

Putting it all together:

The whole word is pronounced: ˈpɒsəbəl (stress on the first syllable)

Here's a phonetic breakdown (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA):

  • ˈpɒs – "pos" (short 'o' sound)
  • əbəl – “ihl” (short 'i' sound)

Tips for Saying it Right:

  • Practice the "z" sound: Really focus on making it sound like the "z" in "zoo." Don't let it be a regular "s."
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

To help me further, could you tell me:

  • Are you having trouble with a specific part of the word (like the "z" sound)?

Usage and examples with the word possible in English

Let's break down how to use the word "possible" in English. It's a very versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. Basic Meaning: Capable of happening or being done.

This is the most common usage. It means something could occur, exist, or be achieved.

  • Example: "It's possible to learn a new language in six months." (It's conceivable, you could do it.)
  • Example: "It's possible that he’s already left." (There's a chance he’s gone.)
  • Example: “Winning the lottery is possible, but very unlikely.” (It's conceivable, but statistically improbable.)

2. Expressing Uncertainty & Tentativeness:

"Possible" is often used to soften a statement or acknowledge a lack of certainty.

  • Example: “I’m not sure if I can make it to the meeting, it's possible I’ll be busy.” (I don't know for sure, it’s a possibility.)
  • Example: “There's a possible solution to the problem, but we haven’t found it yet.” (We’re considering it, but it's not confirmed.)

3. Introducing Options or Alternatives:

It suggests there are multiple ways something could happen or be.

  • Example: “Several possible routes to the airport have been suggested.” (There are several options.)
  • Example: “We have a possible plan, but we need to discuss it further.” (There’s one plan, but it requires consideration.)

4. Describing Something That Can Exist or Be True (Less Common, but Important):

Sometimes, “possible” describes something that could logically be the case, even if it’s not certain.

  • Example: "It's possible that the earth is round." (Historically, it was debated, and it could have been a reasonable belief at the time.) – This usage is increasingly rare, as we now know the earth is round.

Key Phrases Using "Possible":

  • It’s possible that… (followed by a clause expressing a possibility)
  • There's a possibility of… (similar to the above)
  • A possible solution/outcome/reason… (indicating an option)
  • Possible scenarios… (listing potential situations)

Important Grammar Notes:

  • Adjective: “Possible” is almost always used as an adjective (describing a noun). You rarely use it as an adverb.
  • Use with "if": You'll often see it used in conditional sentences: "If it’s possible, we’ll go to the beach."

Let's test your understanding. Try to complete these sentences using "possible":

  1. It's ______ to get caught in the rain if you don't bring an umbrella.
  2. ______ that he will forgive us, but we should still apologize.
  3. ______ routes were considered for the new highway.

Answers to the exercises:

  1. Possible
  2. Possible
  3. Possible

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Explain a specific nuance of "possible" in more detail?
  • Create some practice sentences for you to try?

Synonyms for the word possible

Idioms of the word possible

as quickly, much, soon, etc. as possible
as quickly, much, soon, etc. as you can
  • We will get your order to you as soon as possible.
  • Try to give as much detail as possible in your answer.
  • She did as much as possible to help him.
the best/worst of all possible worlds
a situation in which you have all the possible advantages/disadvantages together
  • In the best of all possible worlds, you should be able to develop your career and enjoy a rewarding family life.
the best of both worlds/all possible worlds
the benefits of two or more completely different situations that you can enjoy at the same time
  • If you enjoy the coast and the country, you'll get the best of both worlds on this walk.
  • Maybe in the best of all possible worlds things would be different.
the worst of all (possible) worlds
a situation in which you have all the possible disadvantages at the same time

    Practice with vocabulary possible

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. It is ____ to resolve this issue by the end of the day if we dedicate all our resources.
    2. The initial plan seemed ____, but further analysis revealed several critical flaws in its execution.
    3. Given the current market conditions, an interest rate hike is highly ____ next quarter.
    4. We need to consider every ____ solution to optimize our energy consumption in the office.

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

    1. Is it ____ to implement these changes within the tight deadline? A) possible B) improbable C) impossible D) unlikely

    2. To achieve our ambitious sales target, a significant increase in marketing spend is ____. A) essential B) optional C) incidental D) secondary

    3. The CEO asked if there were any ____ obstacles to the merger. A) possible B) nonexistent C) potential D) certain

    4. We must ensure that the new software is ____ with existing systems to avoid compatibility issues. A) compatible B) contradictory C) separate D) irrelevant

    5. It is ____ to complete the project ahead of schedule, given the team's efficiency and dedication. A) possible B) out of the question C) unachievable D) guaranteed

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Original: We might be able to achieve our quarterly goals if we enhance our collaborative efforts. Rewrite using "possible":

    2. Original: It's improbable that the new policy will be implemented without any resistance. Rewrite using a related form of "possible":

    3. Original: To succeed in this competitive market, an innovative approach is absolutely necessary. Rewrite NOT using "possible" or its forms, but a suitable replacement word:

    Answer:

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. possible
    2. feasible
    3. probable
    4. possible

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. A) possible
    2. A) essential
    3. A) possible, C) potential
    4. A) compatible
    5. A) possible

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Enhancing our collaborative efforts makes it possible to achieve our quarterly goals.
    2. There's a low possibility that the new policy will be implemented without any resistance.
    3. To succeed in this competitive market, an innovative approach is absolutely crucial.

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