Language Research

possible · adjective

/ˈpɑs.ə.bəl/Full view

Word family

Nouns: possibility, impossibility

Adjectives: possible, impossible

Adverbs: possibly, impossibly

possible (CAN HAPPEN)

A1 If something is possible, it can happen or be done.

Dictionary examples:

Is it possible to speak to the manager please?

Please send it today, if possible.

Is it possible to buy tickets in advance?

Learner example:

If possible, I would like to eat lasagne, because I love Italian food. (Skills for Life (Entry 1); A1; Polish)

as much/quickly/soon, etc. as possible

A2 as much/quickly/soon, etc. as something can happen or be done

Dictionary examples:

Please sit down as quickly as possible.

I'll go as soon as possible.

Learner example:

I need it as soon as possible. (Key English Test; A2; Malay)

possible (NOT CERTAIN)

B1 If something is possible, it might or might not exist or be true.

Dictionary examples:

It's possible (that) Mira might turn up tonight.

"Do you think he'll end up in prison?" "It's very possible."

That's one possible solution to the problem.

Learner example:

I investigate the most urgent environmental problems in our world, and then I [suggest] possible solutions to them. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

whenever possible

B2 every time it is possible

Dictionary example:

I try to use olive oil whenever possible.

Learner example:

My friends have always regarded me as a cheerful, active girl, who is glad to help out whenever possible. (First Certificate in English; B2; Chinese)

wherever possible

B2 every time it is possible

Dictionary examples:

Wherever possible I use honey instead of sugar.

We try to sell local fruit and vegetables wherever possible.

Learner example:

They have to implement more economical and eco-friendly means of transport like electric trains instead of diesel ones and trying to operate alternatives like trams instead of b[u]ses wherever possible and more eco-friendly buses where not. (International English Language Testing System; B2; Marathi)

the best/cheapest/worst, etc. possible

C1 the best/cheapest/worst, etc. that can happen or exist

Dictionary example:

We need to complete the work in the shortest possible time.

Learner example:

But I strongly believe that with good will and enough effort from both sides - our club members and you - we will work everything out in the best possible way! (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Greek)