feasible
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈiːzəbəl/
US
- /ˈfizəbəl/
Description
- Possible
- Practical
- Workable
If an idea is feasible, it means it's possible to do, not just in theory, but in real life, with the time, money, and help you have. Think of building a treehouse. A design that needs materials from another planet is not feasible. But one built with wood from your backyard is much more doable.
The word comes from the Latin facere, meaning "to do." So, something feasible is something that can actually be done in a practical way. Engineers often use this word when planning big projects. They need to make sure their designs are feasible before starting construction. A politician might say a policy change is not feasible because it lacks public support or funding. It is about what can be done, not just what you want to do.
To describe something as "feasible" means that it is possible and practical to carry out, given the available resources, time, and circumstances. It is more than just being theoretically possible; it implies a reasonable chance of success in the real world. For example: "Building a self-sustaining colony on Mars isn't currently feasible with our existing technology."
Feasibility often involves weighing costs against benefits. A business plan might be brilliant in concept, but not feasible if the projected expenses outweigh potential profits. Similarly, a solution to a problem is only considered feasible if it can be put into action without causing too much hardship or disruption.
The word is frequently used in project management, engineering, and politics when people evaluate options and make decisions. A "feasibility study" assesses whether a proposed project is likely to succeed before significant resources are committed. It is about being realistic and practical, acknowledging limits while still exploring possibilities. You might say, "While ambitious, her plan to cycle across the country seemed perfectly feasible given her training and determination."
So, when you hear "feasible," think beyond just can it be done? Think is it practical, reasonable, and likely to succeed in the real world? It is a word that separates dreams from achievable goals.
Examples
- 1
Infrastructure
Building a new train line is technically feasible, but it would take years to finish.
- 2
Decision making
We looked at several options, and this was the most feasible one.
- 3
Team workload
It's not feasible for a small team to answer thousands of emails by hand.
Pattern
feasible for + person/group + to do something
realistic or practical for them
- 4
Budget limits
The plan sounded promising, but it wasn't financially feasible.
Phrase
financially feasible
possible without costing too much money
- 5
Public transport
As battery prices fall, electric buses are becoming more feasible for smaller cities.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- feasibleadjective