Translation guide
Expressing that something is possible to imagine, think of, or consider. In Japanese, this is often conveyed through potential forms, conditional expressions, or set phrases rather than a single direct translation.
To say that an idea, scenario, or possibility can be imagined or comes to mind.
The potential form of 考える (to think). It means 'can be thought' or 'is conceivable'. This is the most direct and common way to express the concept.
That is fully conceivable.
Literally 'can exist/be'. Used for possibilities that are plausible or within the realm of possibility. Often used in formal or written contexts.
Literally 'can imagine'. Used when something can be pictured in the mind. Slightly more concrete than 考えられる.
It is conceivable that he would get angry.
Used in formal or technical contexts to mean 'it is assumed/expected/conceivable'. Often found in reports or risk assessments.
Various risks are conceivable.
Introducing a hypothetical or possible situation.
A common pattern meaning 'it is also conceivable that...'. Used to present an additional possibility.
彼が犯人だという可能性も考えられる。
The possibility that he is the culprit is also conceivable.
そういうこともあり得る。
That kind of thing is also conceivable.
The worst-case scenario is also conceivable.
It is also conceivable that he is lying.
Literally 'there is a possibility that...'. A straightforward way to express that something is conceivable.
It is conceivable that he might fail.
Means 'it is not necessarily the case that... not...', implying that a certain possibility cannot be ruled out. Often used to express a conceivable negative outcome.
It is conceivable that he might not come.
conceivable (unnatural, avoid)