If you are wondering about possible vs posible, the answer is simple: possible is the correct spelling in standard American English. Posible is not the standard English spelling of this word and is usually a spelling mistake.
The correct word, possible, means that something can happen, can be done, or may be true. For example, you can say, “Is it possible to finish this today?” You should not write, “Is it posible to finish this today?”
The confusion is understandable because posible is a real word in some other languages, especially Spanish. English, however, requires the spelling possible, with two s letters.
This guide explains the difference between possible and posible, including their meanings, pronunciation, grammar, history, common mistakes, regional considerations, synonyms, collocations, examples, and practical writing advice.
Quick Answer: Possible or Posible?
Possible is the correct English spelling.
| Spelling | Standard English? | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| possible | Yes | Able to happen, exist, or be done |
| posible | No | Usually a misspelling in English |
Correct examples
- It is possible to solve the problem.
- Is it possible to meet tomorrow?
- We need to consider every possible outcome.
- A better result is possible with more practice.
Incorrect in standard English
- It is posible to solve the problem.
- Is it posible to meet tomorrow?
- We considered every posible outcome.
Easy rule: In English, spell the word possible, not posible.
What Does “Possible” Mean?
Possible is an adjective that describes something that can happen, can exist, can be done, or may be true.
Dictionary-style definition
Possible (adjective):
Able to happen, exist, occur, or be done; not impossible.
For example:
- A possible solution = a solution that may work.
- A possible explanation = an explanation that may be true.
- A possible delay = a delay that may happen.
- A possible candidate = someone who may be suitable or may become a candidate.
Examples
It is possible that she will arrive early.
This means she may arrive early.
Is it possible to change the appointment?
This asks whether changing the appointment can be done.
There are several possible reasons for the error.
This means several reasons could explain the error.
What Does “Posible” Mean?
In standard English, posible is generally considered a misspelling of possible.
However, the spelling is not meaningless everywhere. Posible is the normal spelling of the equivalent word in Spanish, where it means “possible.”
For example, Spanish uses:
Es posible.
English uses:
It is possible.
So a multilingual writer may accidentally transfer the Spanish spelling into English.
Why this matters
If you are writing:
- an English essay,
- a business email,
- a blog post,
- a school assignment,
- a website,
- a resume,
- a news article,
- an academic paper,
- a social media post in English,
use possible.
Possible vs Posible: The Key Difference
The biggest difference is language and spelling.
Possible is the standard English word.
Posible is not the standard spelling in English, although it is a legitimate word in Spanish and some other languages.
The English word contains the letter sequence:
p-o-s-s-i-b-l-e
Notice the two s letters:
possible
Not:
posible
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Possible | Posible |
|---|---|---|
| English spelling | Correct | Incorrect |
| Spanish spelling | Not standard Spanish | Correct |
| Part of speech in English | Adjective | Not standard English usage |
| Meaning in English | Can happen or be done | Usually a misspelling |
| Pronunciation in English | /ˈpɑːsəbəl/ | Not a standard English word |
| Formal writing | Recommended | Avoid |
| Academic writing | Recommended | Avoid |
| Business writing | Recommended | Avoid |
| Casual English | Recommended | Avoid |
Why Do People Confuse Possible and Posible?
There are several reasons writers leave out one of the s letters.
1. The pronunciation can be misleading
In normal speech, the two s letters do not sound like two separate sounds.
We pronounce possible roughly like:
POSS-uh-buhl
The spelling does not sound like “poss-ss-ible.” Because only one clear s sound is heard, writers sometimes forget the second s.
2. Spanish influence
Spanish uses posible, without the second s.
A bilingual speaker may naturally transfer the spelling from Spanish into English.
Compare:
- English: possible
- Spanish: posible
The meaning is very similar, but the spelling is different.
3. English spelling is not always phonetic
English has many words whose spellings cannot be predicted perfectly from pronunciation.
Examples include:
- necessary
- successful
- accessible
- possible
- responsible
- professional
Learning the correct written form is often easier than trying to spell these words only from their sounds.
How Do You Pronounce “Possible”?
In American English, possible is commonly pronounced approximately:
PAH-suh-buhl
The phonetic pronunciation is:
/ˈpɑːsəbəl/
The exact sound can vary slightly depending on accent and speaking speed.
Example
Is it possible?
In natural speech, the word is usually said smoothly rather than with strong emphasis on every syllable.
Does “Posible” Have an English Pronunciation?
Because posible is not a standard English word, it does not have a standard English pronunciation.
If someone writes posible intending the English word, the intended pronunciation is normally that of possible. The problem is the spelling, not the intended meaning.
Is Possible an Adjective?
Yes. Possible is primarily an adjective.
It modifies or describes a noun.
Examples
- a possible answer
- a possible problem
- a possible solution
- a possible explanation
- a possible candidate
- a possible opportunity
- a possible cause
In sentences
We found a possible solution.
That is one possible explanation.
The storm could cause possible delays.
Can “Possible” Be Used as a Noun?
Yes, but this is less common and usually occurs in particular expressions.
For example:
We should consider every possible.
More commonly, English uses the phrase the possible in formal or philosophical contexts:
We should do everything within the possible.
However, everyday English normally uses possible as an adjective.
Possible as a General Idea
The word can describe something that is not certain but has a chance of happening.
Compare these ideas:
- certain = will happen or is definitely true
- possible = may happen or may be true
- unlikely = probably will not happen
- impossible = cannot happen
Example
It is possible that it will rain.
The speaker is not saying that rain is certain. The speaker is saying that rain could happen.
Possible vs Impossible
Possible and impossible are antonyms.
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Possible | Can happen or be done |
| Impossible | Cannot happen or be done |
Examples
It is possible to learn a new language.
It is impossible to be in two places at exactly the same time.
The prefix im- changes the meaning of possible to its opposite.
Possible vs Probable
These words are related but not identical.
Possible means something could happen.
Probable means something is likely to happen.
Compare
It is possible that the team will win.
The team could win.
It is probable that the team will win.
The speaker believes the team is likely to win.
Simple memory trick
Possible = could happen.
Probable = likely to happen.
Possible vs Likely
Possible indicates possibility.
Likely indicates a stronger expectation.
Compare:
It is possible that he will call.
He may call.
It is likely that he will call.
There is a good chance he will call.
This distinction matters in business, journalism, academic writing, and everyday communication.
Possible vs Potential
These words often appear together, but they have different meanings.
Possible describes something that can happen.
Potential describes something that has the ability or possibility to develop into a particular result.
Examples
We discussed possible solutions.
She is a potential customer.
There are several possible causes.
The project has potential for growth.
Common Collocations With Possible
A collocation is a group of words that commonly appear together.
Some common combinations with possible include:
- possible solution
- possible cause
- possible explanation
- possible reason
- possible outcome
- possible result
- possible problem
- possible risk
- possible delay
- possible future
- possible candidate
- possible alternative
- possible option
- possible opportunity
- possible improvement
- possible change
- possible answer
- possible mistake
- possible impact
- possible consequences
Examples
We need to identify the possible causes.
There may be a possible solution to the problem.
Please consider every possible option.
The company warned about possible delays.
Common Phrases With Possible
As soon as possible
This is one of the most common expressions.
Please reply as soon as possible.
It means “as quickly as reasonably possible.”
The abbreviation ASAP is common in informal and business communication.
If possible
Use this phrase when something is conditional.
Please send the report today, if possible.
Where possible
This means “when circumstances allow.”
We use local suppliers where possible.
Whenever possible
This means “every time circumstances allow.”
Walk to work whenever possible.
To the extent possible
This is more formal.
We will reduce costs to the extent possible.
“As Much as Possible” vs “As Soon as Possible”
These phrases are easy to confuse.
As soon as possible
Means as quickly as possible.
Please call me as soon as possible.
As much as possible
Means to the greatest amount or degree possible.
Try to practice as much as possible.
The two expressions have different meanings.
“As Possible” Is Usually Not Enough
Writers sometimes create unnatural sentences such as:
Do it as possible.
This is incorrect or incomplete.
Instead, say:
Do it as soon as possible.
Or:
Make the process as simple as possible.
The structure as + adjective/adverb + as possible is very common.
Examples
- as quickly as possible
- as clearly as possible
- as carefully as possible
- as early as possible
- as accurately as possible
- as simply as possible
- as cheaply as possible
Formal vs Informal Uses of Possible
The word possible works well in both formal and informal English.
Casual
Is it possible to come over tonight?
Professional
Please let us know whether it is possible to reschedule the meeting.
Academic
The results suggest that several explanations are possible.
Business
We will investigate all possible options before making a decision.
Journalistic
Officials are considering several possible causes of the incident.
There is no need to replace possible with a more complicated word just to sound formal.
Possible in American English
Possible is the standard spelling in American English.
Use it in:
- schoolwork
- professional writing
- websites
- emails
- business documents
- news writing
- technical documentation
- social media
- advertising
- everyday conversation
There is no standard American English situation in which posible should replace possible.
Possible in British English
British English also uses possible.
For example:
Is it possible to arrange another meeting?
The spelling is the same in American and British English.
Unlike words such as color/colour or center/centre, possible does not normally have an American-versus-British spelling difference.
International English
Writers using English internationally should also use possible.
The main exception is when reproducing a word from another language, such as Spanish posible, in an appropriate multilingual context.
Is “Posible” Ever Correct?
Yes—but not as the normal English spelling.
If you are writing Spanish, posible is correct.
For example:
Es posible hacerlo.
In English:
It is possible to do it.
Therefore, the answer depends on the language.
| Language | Correct form |
|---|---|
| English | possible |
| Spanish | posible |
| French | possible |
| Portuguese | possível |
If your document is written in English, use possible.
Word History and Etymology of Possible
The English word possible ultimately comes from Latin possibilis, meaning something that can be done or can happen.
It is related to the Latin verb posse, meaning “to be able.”
The word entered English through French and developed into the modern English form possible.
This history also helps explain why related words appear across several European languages.
For example:
- English: possible
- French: possible
- Spanish: posible
- Italian: possibile
- Portuguese: possível
The meanings are closely related, but spelling conventions differ from language to language.
Synonyms for Possible
Depending on context, useful synonyms include:
- feasible
- achievable
- attainable
- viable
- conceivable
- plausible
- potential
- likely
- imaginable
- realistic
- probable
These words are not always perfect substitutes.
Possible vs Feasible
Possible means something can happen.
Feasible often suggests that something is practical or realistically achievable.
It is possible to build the project.
The project is feasible within our budget.
Possible vs Plausible
Plausible means believable or reasonable.
That is a possible explanation.
That is a plausible explanation.
A possible explanation does not necessarily have to be convincing. A plausible explanation usually sounds more believable.
Antonyms of Possible
The clearest antonym is:
impossible
Other opposites may include:
- unlikely
- infeasible
- impractical
- unattainable
- unachievable
The correct choice depends on context.
For example:
It is impossible.
means it cannot happen.
But:
It is impractical.
means it may technically be possible but is not sensible or convenient.
Related Words
Here are several words related to possible:
Impossible
Unable to happen or be done.
That deadline is impossible to meet.
Possibility
The state or fact of being possible.
There is a possibility of rain.
Possibly
An adverb meaning “perhaps” or “maybe.”
She will possibly join us later.
Impossibility
The condition of being impossible.
The impossibility of the task became obvious.
Possibilities
More than one possible choice, outcome, or explanation.
We considered several possibilities.
Grammar: Possible, Possibly, Possibility
These words have different grammatical roles.
| Word | Part of speech | Example |
|---|---|---|
| possible | Adjective | A possible answer |
| possibly | Adverb | She could possibly help |
| possibility | Noun | There is a possibility |
| impossible | Adjective | An impossible task |
| impossibly | Adverb | An impossibly difficult task |
Compare
It is possible.
It could possibly happen.
There is a possibility that it will happen.
The meaning is related, but the grammar is different.
Common Mistakes With Possible
Mistake 1: Writing “posible”
❌ It is posible.
✅ It is possible.
Mistake 2: Writing “possable”
❌ Is that possable?
✅ Is that possible?
The correct ending is -ible, not -able.
Mistake 3: Writing “possibile”
❌ This is possibile.
✅ This is possible.
Possibile is not the standard English spelling.
Mistake 4: Confusing possible and probable
❌ It is possible that means it will definitely happen.
Better:
It is possible, but not certain.
Or:
It is probable if current conditions continue.
Awkward vs Natural Examples
Example 1
Awkward:
Make the delivery posible tomorrow.
Natural:
Make the delivery possible tomorrow.
Even better, depending on meaning:
Please make the delivery tomorrow, if possible.
Example 2
Incorrect:
Is it posible to change the order?
Correct:
Is it possible to change the order?
Example 3
Incorrect:
We need every posible option.
Correct:
We need every possible option.
Example 4
Incorrect:
Send it as fast posible.
Correct:
Send it as fast as possible.
Memory Tricks for Spelling Possible
If you frequently misspell possible, try one of these tricks.
Trick 1: Remember “two S’s”
Think:
po + ss + ible = possible
The word has SS in the middle.
Trick 2: Link It to “possibility”
The related noun is:
possibility
Both words begin with:
poss-
So:
- possible
- possibility
- possibly
All contain the double s.
Trick 3: Remember the opposite
The opposite is:
impossible
If you remember impossible, it becomes easier to remember possible.
Both contain:
possible
Possible in Everyday English
The word appears constantly in ordinary conversation.
Asking whether something can happen
Is it possible to get a refund?
Asking whether something can be done
Is it possible to finish this today?
Describing uncertainty
It is possible that he forgot.
Describing choices
We have several possible options.
Describing explanations
That’s one possible reason.
Talking about future outcomes
Anything is possible.
“Anything Is Possible”
Anything is possible is a common expression meaning that many different outcomes can happen.
It can be used literally or motivationally.
Literal
With enough time and resources, many things are possible.
Motivational
Keep working toward your goal. Anything is possible.
The phrase is common in casual conversation, sports, advertising, speeches, and inspirational writing.
“If Possible”
If possible is useful when making a polite request.
Please send the document today, if possible.
Could you call me this afternoon, if possible?
This phrase is especially useful in professional communication because it makes a request sound flexible rather than demanding.
“Whenever Possible”
Use whenever possible when you want to describe something that should happen whenever circumstances allow.
Use public transportation whenever possible.
Back up your files whenever possible.
It is common in instructions, business writing, technical documentation, and everyday advice.
Possible in Business Writing
In professional writing, possible is clear and neutral.
Examples:
Please provide the earliest possible delivery date.
We are exploring all possible solutions.
We will respond as soon as possible.
Let us know if any changes are possible.
Avoid replacing the word with unnecessarily complex vocabulary. Clear business writing is usually better than impressive-sounding writing.
Possible in Academic Writing
Academic writers often use possible to avoid presenting uncertain claims as facts.
For example:
One possible explanation is that the sample size was too small.
This is more careful than:
The small sample size caused the result.
The first sentence recognizes uncertainty.
Other useful academic phrases include:
- possible explanation
- possible interpretation
- possible limitation
- possible cause
- possible relationship
- possible mechanism
- possible outcome
Possible in Technical Writing
Technical documentation frequently uses possible to describe conditions, outcomes, risks, and solutions.
Examples:
Check for possible configuration errors.
The update may resolve possible compatibility issues.
Restart the device if possible.
Technical writing should be precise about whether something is possible, likely, supported, or guaranteed. These terms are not interchangeable.
Possible in Sports Writing
Sports writers commonly use possible when discussing future lineups, outcomes, transfers, injuries, or strategies.
Examples:
The coach is considering several possible lineups.
A playoff appearance is still possible.
The team faces several possible outcomes in the final round.
The word does not mean that an outcome is likely. It only means that the outcome remains within the range of things that could happen.
Possible in Journalism
Journalists often use possible when facts are not yet confirmed.
Examples:
Officials are investigating a possible cause.
Police are looking into a possible connection.
The company may announce a possible expansion later this year.
This cautious wording helps distinguish confirmed facts from theories or developing information.
Possible in Blogging and Casual Writing
Possible is perfectly natural in blogs and social media.
Examples:
Here are five possible ways to fix the problem.
Is it possible to travel on a small budget?
We looked at every possible option.
You do not need a simpler replacement just because the writing is casual.
When Should You Use “Possible”?
Use possible when you mean:
- Something can happen.
- Something can be done.
- Something may be true.
- Something could exist.
- An outcome remains open.
- You are discussing an option or alternative.
- You want to express uncertainty carefully.
Examples
A solution is possible.
A delay is possible.
Several answers are possible.
It is possible that they are right.
Is a refund possible?
When Should You Avoid “Posible”?
In English, avoid posible whenever you intend the English word.
Do not use it in:
- formal documents
- school assignments
- resumes
- websites
- advertisements
- emails
- reports
- essays
- articles
- technical documentation
- social media posts written in English
The correction is simple:
posible → possible
Practical Recommendation by Writing Type
| Writing situation | Recommended spelling |
|---|---|
| American English | possible |
| British English | possible |
| International English | possible |
| Academic writing | possible |
| Business writing | possible |
| Journalism | possible |
| Technical writing | possible |
| Sports writing | possible |
| Blogging | possible |
| Casual English | possible |
| Spanish writing | posible |
The main rule is to match the spelling to the language you are writing in.
A Simple Editing Checklist
Before publishing or submitting English writing, check for these forms:
- ❌ posible
- ❌ possable
- ❌ possibile
- ❌ possibel
- ❌ posibble
- ✅ possible
Also check related words:
- ✅ possibility
- ✅ possibly
- ✅ impossible
- ✅ impossibility
If your spell checker highlights posible, change it to possible unless you intentionally wrote a Spanish word.
Possible vs Posible: Final Comparison
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Which is correct in English? | Possible |
| Is “posible” an English spelling? | No, not in standard English |
| Why is “posible” confusing? | It is used in Spanish |
| Does American English use “possible”? | Yes |
| Does British English use “possible”? | Yes |
| Does “possible” mean certain? | No |
| What is the opposite of possible? | Impossible |
| What is the noun form? | Possibility |
| What is the adverb form? | Possibly |
| Does possible have two s’s? | Yes |
| Is “as soon as possible” correct? | Yes |
| Is “as fast possible” correct? | No; use “as fast as possible” |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it possible or posible?
Possible is correct in standard English. Posible is normally a misspelling of possible. However, posible is the correct spelling in Spanish.
2. Why do people spell possible as posible?
People often leave out the second s because the word is pronounced without two clearly separate s sounds. Spanish speakers may also be influenced by the Spanish spelling posible.
3. What is the correct spelling of possible?
The correct spelling is possible, with two s letters:
P-O-S-S-I-B-L-E
4. Is “posible” a real word?
Yes, but it is not the standard English spelling. Posible is a Spanish word meaning “possible.” In English writing, use possible.
5. How do you pronounce possible?
In American English, possible is commonly pronounced approximately PAH-suh-buhl, with the stress on the first syllable.
6. What is the difference between possible and probable?
Possible means something can happen. Probable means something is likely to happen. Something can be possible without being probable.
7. What is the noun form of possible?
The main noun form is possibility.
Example:
There is a possibility that the meeting will be canceled.
8. What is the opposite of possible?
The direct opposite is impossible.
Example:
It is possible to finish the work today.
It is impossible to finish the work in one minute.
9. Is possible used in both American and British English?
Yes. Possible is the standard spelling in both American and British English. There is no normal US-versus-UK spelling difference for this word.
10. Is “as soon as possible” correct English?
Yes. As soon as possible is a standard expression meaning “as quickly as reasonably possible.”
Example:
Please reply as soon as possible.
Conclusion
When comparing possible vs posible, there is one clear answer for standard English: possible is the correct spelling.
The word possible is an adjective meaning that something can happen, can be done, can exist, or may be true. It is used naturally in American English, British English, international English, academic writing, business communication, journalism, technical writing, sports writing, blogging, and everyday conversation.
The spelling posible is generally incorrect in English. The main reason you may see it is that posible is the standard Spanish spelling of the equivalent word. That can create confusion for multilingual writers.
The easiest way to remember the English spelling is to focus on the double s:
possible → possibility → possibly → impossible
If you are writing in English, use possible consistently. If you are writing in Spanish, posible may be the correct form.
Final rule: If the sentence is in English, choose possible.
