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.
Introducing a hypothetical or possible situation.
A common pattern meaning 'it is also conceivable that...'. Used to present an additional possibility.
There is no single Japanese word that directly corresponds to 'conceivable' in all contexts. Using a literal translation like '考えられ得る' is unnatural. Instead, use the patterns above depending on the nuance.
conceivable (natural)
That is fully conceivable.
The possibility that he is the culprit is also conceivable.
Literally 'can exist/be'. Used for possibilities that are plausible or within the realm of possibility. Often used in formal or written contexts.
That kind of thing is also conceivable.
The worst-case scenario is also conceivable.
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.
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)