conceivably

Thân thiện

The weather may conceivably change by this afternoon.

Definition

Adverb: Used to indicate that something is possible to imagine, believe, or consider, even if it is not certain or likely. It suggests that an idea or event is within the bounds of possibility.

Usage

"Conceivably" is used to modify a verb, clause, or entire statement to express that what is being described could happen or be true. It often introduces a speculative or hypothetical scenario. It is typically placed before the main verb or at the beginning of a clause.

Examples

• Modifying a verb phrase:

  • With enough funding, the project could conceivably be finished by December.
  • He is so talented that he might conceivably win the championship.

• At the start of a clause:

  • Conceivably, we could arrive early if the traffic is light.
  • Conceivably, the ancient manuscript contains lost knowledge.

Advanced Usage

• Used for cautious or diplomatic statements: "Conceivably" can soften a strong opinion or suggestion, making it sound less absolute.
  • That is conceivably the best solution available to us at this time.
• In negative or questioning contexts: It can question the limits of possibility.
  • How could he conceivably have known the answer?
  • There is no way she could conceivably afford that.

Variants and Related Words

• Conceivable (adjective): Capable of being imagined or believed; possible.
  • It is a conceivable outcome, though not a probable one.
• Inconceivably (adverb): To an impossible-to-imagine degree; unbelievably.
  • The task was inconceivably difficult.

Synonyms

• Possibly: Used to indicate a chance that something may happen or be true.
• Perhaps: Used to express uncertainty or possibility.
• Maybe: Used to indicate a possibility or uncertainty.

Note: While similar, "conceivably" often implies something is imaginable or logically possible based on known facts, whereas "possibly" is more general.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• It is conceivable that...: A phrase used to introduce a possible scenario.
  • It is conceivable that prices will rise again next year.

Học thuật

Adverb

1. within the realm of possibility
   • the weather may conceivably change