possivel

Possível is a Portuguese adjective that denotes something that can happen, exist, or be true. It describes a state or condition that is not certain but can occur under the right circumstances. In everyday use, it contrasts with impassable or impossible outcomes, and with words that express higher probability, such as provável. The term is versatile and appears in statements about events, solutions, plans, and conditions.

Etymology and cognates: possivel derives from Latin possibilis, formed from posse (to be able) plus the suffix -bilis. It has cognates in other Romance languages, such as Spanish posible and French possible, reflecting a shared Latin root and semantic field of feasibility and capacity.

Forms and usage: In Portuguese, possivel is generally invariable for gender (masculine and feminine use the same form) and takes a plural as possíveis. It is commonly used with ser, estar, parecer, and pode in constructions such as “É possível," “Não é possível,” or “Pode ser que seja possível.” Related words include possibilidade (noun: the possibility) and possivelmente (adverb: possibly). The opposite is geralmente expressed by impossível or pouco provável, depending on the context. The term can also be used more loosely to indicate practical feasibility (viável) or theoretical potential, depending on nuance.

Notes: While often interchangeable with viável in some contexts, possível emphasizes the notion that something may occur, rather than necessarily being workable or advisable. Its usage is widespread in formal, academic, and everyday Portuguese.