Feasible vs. Plausible — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 24, 2024
Feasible means practically doable and likely to succeed, while plausible refers to something that appears credible or believable, but not necessarily achievable.
Difference Between Feasible and Plausible
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Feasible refers to the practicality and possibility of a task or idea being successfully completed. Whereas, plausible is more about the appearance of truth or reasonableness in theory, without necessarily being achievable.
A feasible plan implies that the necessary resources and capabilities are available to execute it. On the other hand, a plausible theory might sound reasonable but lacks practical backing for actual implementation.
Feasibility often requires detailed planning and analysis to ensure that something can be effectively done within existing constraints. Conversely, plausibility can often be assessed more subjectively, based on how convincingly something is presented or argued.
While feasibility is a key consideration in project management and business planning, ensuring that objectives are achievable, plausibility often comes into play in debates and theoretical discussions, where the emphasis is on logical coherence.
Feasible ideas are typically grounded in reality with a clear path to realization, focusing on "how" something can be done. Plausible ideas, however, might only need to convince on a superficial level, focusing more on "if" something could be true or possible.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Capable of being done or carried out
Seemingly or apparently valid, likely, or acceptable
Focus
Practicality and execution
Believability and theoretical validity
Requirement
Resources, planning, and capability
Logical structure and coherence
Usage Context
Business planning, project management
Argumentation, theoretical discussions
Outcome Oriented
Concerned with successful completion
Concerned with acceptance or belief
Compare with Definitions
Feasible
Capable of being done or accomplished successfully.
It's feasible to finish the project within three months with adequate resources.
Plausible
Appearing true, reasonable, or fair.
His excuse for being late was plausible but not convincing.
Feasible
Practical and likely to succeed.
The new route is feasible for the morning commute.
Plausible
Having an appearance of truth or reason.
The theory is plausible, but lacks enough evidence.
Feasible
Suitable for use or dealing with specific problems.
Using solar power is feasible for reducing energy costs.
Plausible
Superficially fair, reasonable, or valuable but often specious.
She offered a plausible argument in the debate.
Feasible
Possible and practical to do easily or conveniently.
The proposed solution is feasible with our current budget.
Plausible
Seemingly valid or acceptable; credible.
The story was plausible enough to be believed by many.
Feasible
Likely to be followed or achieved.
The plan seems feasible given the time constraints.
Plausible
Worthy of being accepted as reasonable or probable.
It’s plausible that increased screen time can affect sleep patterns.
Feasible
Possible and practical to do easily or conveniently
The Dutch have demonstrated that it is perfectly feasible to live below sea level
Plausible
Seemingly or apparently valid, likely, or acceptable; credible
A plausible excuse.
Feasible
Likely; probable
The most feasible explanation
Plausible
Persuasive or ingratiating, especially in an effort to deceive.
Feasible
Capable of being accomplished or brought about; possible
A feasible plan.
Plausible
Seemingly or apparently valid, likely, or acceptable; conceivably true or likely.
A plausible excuse
Feasible
Capable of being used or dealt with successfully
Feasible new sources of energy.
Plausible
Obtaining approbation; specifically pleasing; apparently right; specious.
A plausible pretext; plausible manners; a plausible delusion
Feasible
Logical; likely
A feasible explanation.
Plausible
(obsolete) Worthy of being applauded; praiseworthy; commendable; ready.
Feasible
Able to be done in practice.
His plan to rid Trafalgar Square of pigeons by bringing in peregrine falcons to eat them was dismissed as not feasible.
Plausible
Worthy of being applauded; praiseworthy; commendable; ready.
Feasible
Capable of being done, executed, or effected; practicable.
Always existing before their eyes as a thing feasible in practice.
It was not feasible to gratify so many ambitions.
Plausible
Obtaining approbation; specifically pleasing; apparently right; specious; as, a plausible pretext; plausible manners; a plausible delusion.
Feasible
Fit to be used or tilled, as land.
Plausible
Using specious arguments or discourse; as, a plausible speaker.
Feasible
Capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are
Plausible
Apparently reasonable and valid
Feasible
In a practicable manner; so as to be feasible
Plausible
Likely but not certain to be or become true or real;
A likely result
He foresaw a probable loss
Plausible
Within the realm of credibility;
Not a very likely excuse
A plausible story
Plausible
Appearing to merit belief or acceptance;
A credible witness
A plausible story
Common Curiosities
Why is feasibility important in business?
Feasibility is crucial in business to ensure that projects and initiatives can be realistically implemented and are likely to succeed.
What role does plausibility play in scientific theories?
In scientific theories, plausibility helps to determine whether the theories are reasonably grounded in logic and evidence, thus worthy of further investigation.
Can a project be plausible but not feasible?
Yes, a project can appear theoretically sound (plausible) but may lack the practical means for implementation (not feasible).
Is feasibility always based on financial resources?
While financial resources are a common factor, feasibility also considers other resources, capabilities, and existing conditions.
Can a plausible argument be misleading?
Yes, because plausible arguments may appear convincing and reasonable while lacking actual substance or truth.
How do you assess if an idea is plausible?
To assess if an idea is plausible, one must evaluate whether it logically fits within established knowledge and appears reasonable.
What does it mean when a plan is deemed feasible?
When a plan is deemed feasible, it means it is practically possible to be implemented successfully within the given constraints.
How does plausibility affect the credibility of a statement?
Plausibility enhances the credibility of a statement by making it appear reasonable or believable, even if it is not necessarily factual.
What makes a product development feasible?
Product development is feasible if it can be completed with available technology, resources, within budget, and on schedule.
What is the difference between a feasible solution and a plausible solution?
A feasible solution is practically viable and can be successfully implemented, while a plausible solution may simply appear to be a good idea without guarantees of success.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
