conceivable
/kən'si:vəbl/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Capable of being imagined or considered possible: Describes something that can be thought of, envisioned, or believed to be possible within the bounds of reason or logic.
- That is one possible answer or explanation: Indicates an idea, theory, or outcome that is plausible or within the realm of possibility.
Usage and Examples
- As an adjective:
- It is conceivable that humans will one day live on Mars. (It is possible to imagine this happening.)
- The only conceivable reason for his absence is illness. (Illness is the only plausible explanation one can think of.)
- We must consider every conceivable outcome before making a decision. (We must think of all possible results.)
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- Often used with "it is" or "that" clauses to introduce a hypothetical scenario.
- It is conceivable that she forgot the appointment.
- Can be used to express a degree of doubt or to present a less-than-certain possibility.
- While not likely, it is still conceivable.
- Frequently modified by adverbs like "barely," "hardly," "perfectly," or "easily" to indicate the ease or difficulty of imagining something.
- A victory is easily conceivable.
- Such a mistake is hardly conceivable from an expert.
Variants and Related Words
- Conceivably (adverb): In a way that can be imagined or believed; possibly.
- He could conceivably win the race.
- Conceive (verb): To form or devise a plan or idea in the mind; to imagine.
- I cannot conceive of a reason why he would lie.
Synonyms
- Imaginable: Capable of being imagined.
- Possible: Able to be done or achieved; within the power or capacity of someone or something.
- Plausible: Seeming reasonable or probable.
- Thinkable: Capable of being thought or considered.
Antonyms
- Inconceivable: Not capable of being imagined or grasped mentally; unbelievable.
- Unimaginable: Difficult or impossible to imagine or comprehend.
- Impossible: Not able to occur, exist, or be done.
Common Phrases and Collocations
- Every conceivable [noun]: Used to emphasize that all possible types or examples of something are included.
- They prepared for every conceivable emergency.
- It is conceivable that...: A common phrase used to introduce a possible idea or event.
- It is conceivable that the data is incomplete.
- Within the conceivable future: At some point in a future that one can reasonably imagine or foresee.
- This technology may become mainstream within the conceivable future.
Adjective
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capable of being imagined
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that is one possible answer
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