Possible vs. Practicable — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 29, 2024
Possible refers to something that can happen or exist, focusing on theoretical capability, while practicable emphasizes the feasibility and practicality of actually implementing or doing it.
Difference Between Possible and Practicable
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Possible is a term that denotes anything that can happen or be done, without taking into account the practicality or feasibility of the action. It implies a theoretical capability or opportunity without necessarily considering the real-world constraints. Whereas, practicable refers to something that is not only possible but also reasonable and viable to implement or achieve, taking into account existing conditions and resources.
While possible actions or outcomes are limited only by imagination and theoretical constraints, practicable actions are bounded by practicality, resources, and current realities. This means that while many things might be possible, not all are practicable given the circumstances.
In the realm of decision-making, labeling something as possible might open the door to innovative thinking and exploration of various options, irrespective of their current feasibility. On the other hand, focusing on what is practicable can help in narrowing down options to those that are realistically achievable within the given constraints.
The evaluation of what is possible is often the first step in the creative or planning process, serving as a brainstorming phase where ideas are not limited by practical concerns. However, the transition from possible to practicable requires an assessment of resources, limitations, and the current environment, ensuring that ideas can be realistically implemented.
Considering technological innovations, many inventions start as merely possible ideas that seem far-fetched or impractical at their inception. As technology and circumstances evolve, what was once merely possible can become practicable, highlighting the dynamic relationship between these concepts.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Capable of happening or being done, without regard to feasibility.
Capable of being done or carried out, with consideration to practicality.
Focus
Theoretical capability or potential.
Feasibility and practical implementation.
Limitations
Limited by theoretical or imaginative constraints.
Bounded by practicality, resources, and current realities.
Role in Planning
Encourages exploration of all conceivable options.
Narrows options to those that are realistically achievable.
Relationship to Change
Can inspire innovation by pushing the boundaries of what is considered achievable.
Reflects current capabilities and conditions, but may evolve as resources and technology develop.
Compare with Definitions
Possible
Within the realm of capability.
With enough training, running a marathon is possible for many.
Practicable
Reasonably achievable.
A four-day workweek is practicable if productivity remains consistent.
Possible
Capable of happening.
It is possible to climb Mount Everest, but it requires extensive preparation.
Practicable
Practical and realistic.
Growing your own vegetables is a practicable way to reduce food expenses.
Possible
Conceivable or imaginable.
Flying cars are possible in the future with advances in technology.
Practicable
Viable in practice.
Using public transport is a practicable way to reduce city pollution.
Possible
Not ruled out by circumstances.
A solution to the problem is possible if we think creatively.
Practicable
Achievable under existing conditions.
Telecommuting is practicable for many office jobs.
Possible
Subject to chance.
It's possible that it will rain tomorrow according to the forecast.
Practicable
Feasible and can be done.
Implementing renewable energy solutions is practicable with current technology.
Possible
Capable of happening, existing, or being true without contradicting proven facts, laws, or circumstances
Is it possible to move faster than the speed of light?.
Practicable
Capable of being effected, done, or put into practice; feasible.
Possible
Capable of becoming or of being made to be so; potential
Possible suspects in the case.
A possible site for the new capital.
Practicable
Usable for a specified purpose
A practicable way of entry.
Possible
Capable of occurring or being done in accordance with something specified. Used with the superlative
You'll get the best possible care at this hospital.
Practicable
Capable of being accomplished; feasible.
Possible
Capable of happening but of uncertain likelihood
It is possible that you might feel some discomfort after the procedure.
Practicable
Serving a useful function; useful, functional or handy.
Possible
Permissible
Is it possible to enter the gallery at this hour?.
Practicable
Available for use; accessible or employable.
Possible
Able but not certain to happen; neither inevitable nor impossible.
Rain tomorrow is possible, but I wouldn't bet on it.
It's not just possible, it's probable that there will be rain tomorrow.
Practicable
That may be practiced or performed; capable of being done or accomplished with available means or resources; feasible; as, a practicable method; a practicable aim; a practicable good.
Possible
(comparable) Capable of being done or achieved; feasible.
It's possible for anyone to learn to pay the bagpipes.
Practicable
Capable of being used; passable; as, a practicable weapon; a practicable road.
Possible
Being considered, e.g. for a position.
Jones and Smith are both possible for the opening in sales.
Practicable
Usable for a specific purpose;
An operable plan
A practicable solution
Possible
Apparently valid, likely, plausible.
Practicable
Capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are
Possible
A possible one.
Possible
A possible choice, notably someone being considered for a position.
Jones is a possible for the new opening in sales.
Possible
(rare) A particular event that may happen.
Possible
Capable of existing or occurring, or of being conceived or thought of; able to happen; capable of being done; not contrary to the nature of things; - sometimes used to express extreme improbability; barely able to be, or to come to pass; as, possibly he is honest, as it is possible that Judas meant no wrong.
With God all things are possible.
Possible
Something that can be done;
Politics is the art of the possible
Possible
An applicant who might be suitable
Possible
Capable of happening or existing;
A breakthrough may be possible next year
Anything is possible
Warned of possible consequences
Possible
Existing in possibility;
A potential problem
Possible uses of nuclear power
Possible
Possible to conceive or imagine;
That is one possible answer
Common Curiosities
How do possible and practicable differ in planning?
Possible encourages exploration of all conceivable options, while practicable narrows options to those realistically achievable.
Can something be possible but not practicable?
Yes, many ideas or solutions may be possible theoretically but not practicable due to practical limitations.
What does practicable mean?
Practicable denotes something that is not only possible but also feasible and practical to implement or achieve.
How do resources affect what is practicable?
Resources, or the lack thereof, directly influence what is considered practicable by determining what can feasibly be achieved.
Can the practicability of an idea change over time?
Yes, as resources, technology, or circumstances change, what is practicable can evolve.
How does innovation relate to what is considered possible or practicable?
Innovation can turn what is merely possible into something practicable by overcoming current limitations.
How does evaluation of practicability occur?
It involves assessing the feasibility, resources, and practical implications of implementing an idea.
Can practicability limit creativity?
While focusing on practicability might limit exploration of theoretical possibilities, it ensures that creative efforts are directed towards feasible outcomes.
What does possible mean?
Possible refers to anything that can happen or be achieved, focusing on theoretical capability.
Why is it important to distinguish between possible and practicable?
Distinguishing between them helps in setting realistic goals and focusing efforts on achievable outcomes.
Is practicable the same as practical?
Practicable emphasizes feasibility and the ability to be done, while practical focuses more on the usefulness and appropriateness of something.
How does technological advancement affect practicability?
Technological advancements can make previously impractical ideas feasible and practicable by providing new solutions and efficiencies.
What role does imagination play in determining what is possible?
Imagination expands the boundaries of what is considered possible by envisioning beyond current limitations.
Can public opinion influence what is considered practicable?
Yes, public support or opposition can impact the perceived feasibility and practicality of implementing certain policies or projects.
Why might businesses focus more on practicability than possibilities?
Businesses often prioritize practicability to ensure that investments lead to viable, cost-effective outcomes.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
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.
