Cool MateIt is possible vs Viable
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
It is possible
Beyond 10,000 (less common)
Viable
Top 2,000 (common)C1adjective
Most common: Viable
| It is possible | Viable | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ɪt ɪz ˈpɒsəbl//🇺🇸 //ɪt ɪz ˈpɑsəbl// | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈvaɪəbl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈvaɪəbl/"]/ |
| Meaning | It can happen | Able to work or succeed. |
| Example | It is possible to learn a new language at any age. | a **viable option/proposition** |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Beyond 10,000 (less common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | - | C1 |
| Part of speech | adjective | |
| Collocations | it is possible to, it is possible that, possible solution, possible outcome, possible improvement | be, prove, seem, extremely, truly, perfectly |
| Antonyms | - | unviable, impractical, infeasible |
| Common mistakes | Using 'possible' without 'it is' to sound complete, e.g., 'Possible that we win.', Confusing with 'likely' which indicates probability, not just potential., Overusing in casual conversations where simpler phrases like 'we can' might fit better. | Confused with 'viable' vs 'viability' - remember 'viable' is the adjective., Using 'viable' incorrectly with non-project contexts, like personal opinions., Mixing up 'viable' with 'valid' - 'viable' relates to practicality, 'valid' to correctness. |
| Usage notes | This phrase is used to express potential or ability. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but can be more formal in academic settings. | Use 'viable' when discussing options or plans that are practical and achievable. Avoid in very casual contexts; it sounds more professional. |
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Frequently asked questions: It is possible vs Viable
What's the difference between It is possible and Viable?
It is possible: It can happen Viable: Able to work or succeed.
Which is more common: It is possible and Viable?
Viable is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
It is possible: It is possible to learn a new language at any age. Viable: a **viable option/proposition**
Can I use It is possible and Viable interchangeably?
Not always. It is possible and Viable are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.