Detailed Article for the Word “Feasible”
What is Feasible: Introduction
Picture an ambitious project, like building a bridge or launching a startup—before starting, one crucial question looms: is it “feasible”? “Feasible” captures the essence of what’s realistically possible, achievable, or within reach. In a world where bold ideas fuel progress, the concept of feasibility acts as a guiding light, distinguishing visionary plans from those that may not hold up in practice. From daily decision-making to large-scale innovation, asking if something is “feasible” helps us gauge potential, resources, and practical steps toward success.
Origin and History of the Word Feasible
The word “feasible” originates from the Old French word faisible, meaning “capable of being done,” which itself stems from the Latin verb facere, meaning “to make” or “to do.” First appearing in English in the late 15th century, “feasible” initially referred to things that could be accomplished or brought into existence. Over time, the term has broadened to encompass concepts, plans, and methods, assessing whether something can be achieved practically and efficiently. Today, “feasible” is widely used in fields ranging from business to engineering, where feasibility studies are crucial for evaluating the viability of projects and ideas.
Meaning and Definition of Feasible
Feasible (adjective):
- Capable of being done or accomplished; achievable
- Practical and realistic given current circumstances
- (In business and engineering) Suitable for implementation after assessment
Usage note: “Feasible” implies a practical likelihood of success and differs from “possible,” which merely indicates potential without regard to practicality.
How to Pronounce Feasible
FEE-zuh-buhl
How to Remember Feasible: Memory Tips
Think of “feasible” as “fee-sable,” like a goal that’s “fees-able” or worth the cost. Another trick is to associate it with “facility”—something that’s feasible has the “facil-” root, hinting that it’s manageable or doable. Picture a mountain climber: the climb may be steep, but if it’s feasible, it’s within their capabilities to reach the summit with the right planning.
Feasible in a Sentence: Examples and Usage
- Business: Conducting a feasibility study helped the team determine whether the project was financially feasible.
- Scientific: The researchers considered it feasible to scale up their experiment to test on a larger population.
- Environmental: Renewable energy adoption became feasible as solar technology improved and costs fell.
- Personal: With her schedule, it wasn’t feasible to add more responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed.
- Technological: The invention was feasible given recent advancements in materials science.
- Educational: Offering free online courses makes it feasible for more students to access higher education.
- Social: It was feasible for the community to organize a festival with volunteer support.
Difficulty Level of Using Feasible
Intermediate: Common in academic, professional, and everyday settings. Straightforward meaning but requires understanding context, particularly in assessing practicality.
Modern Usage of Feasible in Contemporary Context
Today, “feasible” is integral in evaluating ideas across various fields. Feasibility studies are standard practice in business and engineering, assessing whether projects are achievable given financial, technical, and logistical constraints. In environmental policy, feasibility often influences decisions about renewable energy, waste reduction, and conservation, balancing idealistic goals with what’s practical for communities and economies. Technological advancements have also shifted feasibility: ideas that once seemed improbable, such as electric vehicles or smart homes, are now feasible due to innovation and investment. Socially, feasibility impacts policy debates, as proposals are weighed against resources and existing infrastructures. As technology and society evolve, feasibility remains essential for making sound decisions grounded in practicality, whether for an individual’s goals or society’s future.
