Practicable vs. Feasible — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Urooj Arif — Updated on March 7, 2024
Practicable refers to something that can be done or put into practice, especially because it is realistic or achievable, while feasible implies that something is possible or likely to be achieved, considering available resources, time, and constraints.
Difference Between Practicable and Feasible
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Practicable is used to describe something that is not only possible in theory but also viable in practice. It implies that the necessary conditions, means, or circumstances are present to put a plan, idea, or method into action. Feasible, on the other hand, focuses on the likelihood of success or the possibility of something being achieved, considering the current circumstances, resources, and constraints. It is often used in the context of planning and decision-making to evaluate whether an idea, project, or goal can be accomplished.
When something is described as practicable, it suggests a higher degree of readiness for implementation, highlighting the practical steps and means available to achieve it. In contrast, describing something as feasible indicates that, after evaluation, it appears possible and achievable, but it may still require significant planning, resources, or adjustments to make it a reality.
The choice between practicable and feasible often depends on the stage of evaluation or planning. Practicable is more about the practicality and ease of implementation, focusing on the "how" aspect. Feasible is more about the potential for success, focusing on the "if" aspect, considering all relevant factors that could impact the outcome.
Understanding the distinction between the two can help in clearly communicating the status and prospects of plans, projects, and ideas, ensuring that expectations are aligned with what is realistically achievable and what is currently viable.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Capable of being done or executed; viable in practice.
Possible to be achieved or accomplished; likely to succeed.
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Emphasis
On practical implementation and the means to do something.
On the likelihood of success considering all constraints.
Considerations
Practicality, efficiency, and available means or methods.
Resources, constraints, logistics, and overall potential for success.
Usage
More about readiness and the ease of putting into practice.
More about evaluating the potential and possibility of achievement.
Example
Implementing a new filing system is practicable with current staff and technology.
Launching a new product is feasible with the projected budget and market research.
Compare with Definitions
Practicable
Realistically able to be carried out; executable.
The plan to expand the garden is practicable this spring.
Feasible
Evaluates the likelihood of achieving a goal.
Expanding into international markets is feasible with adequate research.
Practicable
Focuses on the ease and efficiency of execution.
Switching to digital records is practicable and will improve efficiency.
Feasible
May require adjustments to become achievable.
Reducing operational costs is feasible by streamlining processes.
Practicable
Emphasizes the ability to put into action.
Using renewable energy sources is practicable in our current infrastructure.
Feasible
Possible to do easily or conveniently; likely to succeed.
A marketing campaign targeting a new demographic is feasible.
Practicable
Suggests a higher degree of preparedness for action.
Remote working is practicable with our existing technology.
Feasible
Takes into account resources and constraints.
Implementing a four-day workweek is feasible with careful planning.
Practicable
Indicates that the methods or means to do something are at hand.
With the tools we have, building a prototype is practicable.
Feasible
Involves a comprehensive assessment of possibilities.
Developing a new software application is feasible within the year.
Practicable
Capable of being effected, done, or put into practice; feasible.
Feasible
Possible and practical to do easily or conveniently
The Dutch have demonstrated that it is perfectly feasible to live below sea level
Practicable
Usable for a specified purpose
A practicable way of entry.
Feasible
Likely; probable
The most feasible explanation
Practicable
Capable of being accomplished; feasible.
Feasible
Capable of being accomplished or brought about; possible
A feasible plan.
Practicable
Serving a useful function; useful, functional or handy.
Feasible
Capable of being used or dealt with successfully
Feasible new sources of energy.
Practicable
Available for use; accessible or employable.
Feasible
Logical; likely
A feasible explanation.
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.
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.
Practicable
Capable of being used; passable; as, a practicable weapon; a practicable road.
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.
Practicable
Usable for a specific purpose;
An operable plan
A practicable solution
Feasible
Fit to be used or tilled, as land.
Practicable
Capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are
Feasible
Capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are
Feasible
In a practicable manner; so as to be feasible
Common Curiosities
Can feasibility change over time?
Yes, as resources, technologies, and circumstances change, what is considered feasible can also change.
Is practicability more concerned with current capabilities?
Yes, practicability focuses on current capabilities and the practical steps needed for implementation.
Is financial viability more related to practicability or feasibility?
Financial viability is an important aspect of feasibility, as it considers whether the financial resources and projections support the project's success.
Are practicable solutions always the most efficient?
Not necessarily, but practicability does imply a consideration for efficiency and the practical means available.
How do feasibility studies relate to these terms?
Feasibility studies evaluate the viability of a project or plan, focusing on its potential for success, thus relating more closely to the concept of feasibility.
Can a project be feasible but not practicable?
Yes, a project might be theoretically possible (feasible) but not readily implementable (practicable) due to current constraints or practical issues.
Does feasibility imply a need for further planning?
Often, yes, because determining something as feasible usually precedes detailed planning to address any identified constraints or requirements.
Is something practicable always feasible?
Generally, if something is practicable, it is also feasible, but the reverse is not always true, as feasibility does not guarantee immediate practicality.
Can regulations or laws affect practicability and feasibility?
Yes, regulatory or legal constraints can play a significant role in determining both the practicability and feasibility of a plan or project.
How does innovation impact practicability and feasibility?
Innovation can expand what is practicable by providing new means or methods for implementation and can also make new projects or ideas feasible by overcoming previous constraints.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
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.
