The word feasibly is not only a useful adverb in English, but also one that appears in both academic writing and casual conversation. It is often used to describe something that can be done or achieved in a realistic, practical, or logical manner. Understanding how to use feasibly in a sentence helps enhance both written and spoken English, especially when discussing possibilities, plans, or solutions. Exploring its meaning and correct usage can empower language learners and fluent speakers alike to communicate more precisely.
Understanding the Meaning of Feasibly
To use a word accurately, it’s important to first understand what it means. Feasibly is an adverb derived from the adjective feasible. The root word feasible refers to something that is capable of being done, possible, or likely. When transformed into an adverb, feasibly modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb to suggest that the action or condition being described can be realistically accomplished.
Definition of Feasibly
Feasibly means in a way that is possible or likely to happen, or in a practical and achievable manner. It is used to highlight that an action or idea can be carried out under given circumstances or within existing constraints.
Synonyms of Feasibly
- Practically
- Possibly
- Realistically
- Achievably
- Viably
Although similar, each of these synonyms may carry slightly different nuances. Feasibly is often used when there is logic or reason to support the possibility of success.
Using Feasibly in a Sentence
One of the most effective ways to grasp the meaning of a word is by seeing it used in context. Here are several examples of how feasibly can be used in a sentence:
- We can feasibly complete the project by next Friday if all team members stay on schedule.
- The bridge could feasibly withstand the storm with proper reinforcement.
- She explained how the experiment could feasibly be repeated in a smaller laboratory.
- They argued that the company could feasibly expand to international markets within the year.
- Is it feasibly possible to launch the product with our current budget?
Each of these examples demonstrates how feasibly helps express the likelihood or practicality of a specific action or outcome. It signals that the speaker believes the scenario being described is not just theoretical, but within reach.
Common Contexts Where Feasibly Appears
Feasibly is a versatile word that is used in many types of communication. Here are some common contexts where you might hear or read this word:
1. Business and Planning
When companies or teams create plans, strategies, or projections, they often discuss what can be feasibly achieved within a certain time or budget. For example: We can feasibly open three new stores by the end of the quarter.
2. Engineering and Technology
In fields where projects are complex and require precise planning, feasibly is used to describe what can realistically be built or developed. Example: The design could feasibly support a much heavier load with only minor adjustments.
3. Academia and Research
In academic papers, especially in science or social studies, researchers use feasibly to outline the possibilities of repeating or expanding studies. Example: The results can feasibly be replicated under similar environmental conditions.
4. Everyday Decision-Making
Even in daily life, people use feasibly when considering whether something can be done. For instance: We can feasibly cook dinner at home instead of eating out.
Grammatical Placement and Structure
Understanding how feasibly fits into a sentence structure is crucial for proper usage. As an adverb, it typically comes before or after the verb it modifies, or at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis. Here are a few examples that illustrate different positions:
- Before verb: They can feasibly manage the event alone.
- After verb: They can manage the event feasibly.
- At the beginning: Feasibly, we could reduce our expenses by switching suppliers.
In all these cases, feasibly is used to explain the level of practicality or likelihood associated with the verb’s action.
Common Mistakes with Feasibly
Although feasibly is fairly straightforward, there are some mistakes that learners and even native speakers sometimes make:
- Confusing feasibly with possibly: While similar, possibly is more general. Feasibly implies realistic conditions that make something likely to occur.
- Using feasible instead of feasibly: Remember that feasible is an adjective and should modify nouns, while feasibly is an adverb used with verbs or adjectives.
- Overusing in one sentence: Like any word, using feasibly too often in the same paragraph can weaken the clarity of writing. It’s best used when truly emphasizing possibility or practicality.
Why Feasibly Matters in Communication
Using the word feasibly adds precision to your language. Instead of making vague statements about what can be done, it allows you to express that something is possible under logical or practical terms. It also helps when persuading others, especially in professional or academic environments where realistic planning is valued.
Benefits of Using Feasibly
- Shows critical thinking and consideration of reality
- Adds credibility and structure to arguments
- Helps express possibility with confidence and clarity
- Fits naturally in both formal and informal English
The word feasibly is an effective tool for expressing the realistic possibility of actions or ideas. It provides a balance between imagination and logic, showing that something is not just a dream, but within reach. Whether used in a sentence to describe a business plan, a scientific process, or a simple household task, feasibly communicates potential in a grounded and confident way. Learning to use this word correctly can enhance both your written and spoken communication, making your ideas sound more thoughtful and well-considered. Try incorporating it into your vocabulary and observe how it adds depth to your expression.