Translation guide
Expresses that something is possible to do, practical, or achievable. Japanese uses different expressions depending on whether you focus on possibility, practicality, or realizability.
Saying that something can be done or is within one's ability.
The most direct equivalent, meaning 'possible' or 'feasible'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese. Often appears as 可能である in formal writing.
This plan is quite feasible.
Is it feasible to finish within the deadline?
The potential form of する, meaning 'can do' or 'is doable'. Very common in everyday speech. Often more natural than 可能だ for personal abilities.
Is it feasible to do it alone?
I think this job is feasible by tomorrow.
Lit. 'not impossible', a softer way to say something is feasible, often implying difficulty but still possible.
It's not infeasible, but difficult.
Emphasizing that something is realistic and can be put into practice, not just theoretically possible.
Indicating that an option is not only possible but also reasonable or likely to succeed.
Means 'promising' or 'hopeful'. Used when an idea or plan seems feasible and has good prospects.
This venture is feasible (promising).
Business term meaning 'profitable' or 'economically viable'. Used when feasibility is about financial viability.
This project is not financially feasible.
可能 (kanō) is more formal and often used in written or objective contexts. できる (dekiru) is the everyday potential form and is preferred in casual conversation. For personal abilities, できる is more natural.
He can speak English. (Not: 彼は英語が可能だ, which sounds unnatural)
While 可能 is a direct translation of 'feasible', it can sound stiff or overly formal in daily speech. Use できる or 現実的 for more natural expressions.
Is it feasible to finish by tomorrow?
Is it feasible to finish by tomorrow?
Let's make a more feasible plan.
Literally 'executable' or 'implementable'. Used in business or technical contexts to mean a plan or method is workable.
Is this idea technically feasible?
Means 'realizable' or 'achievable'. Often used for goals, dreams, or projects.
Do you think that dream is feasible?