Ask Difference

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.
Practicable vs. Feasible — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Practicable and Feasible

ADVERTISEMENT

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.
ADVERTISEMENT

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.

Share Your Discovery

Share via Social Media
Embed This Content
Embed Code
Share Directly via Messenger
Link
Previous Comparison
Flail vs. Mace
Next Comparison
Forward vs. Aft

Author Spotlight

Written by
Urooj Arif
Urooj 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.
Tayyaba 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.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

New Comparisons

Trending Terms