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A1 adjective #1,000 most common 14 min read

möglich

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips möglich in 30 Seconds

Explanation möglich in your Level:

At the A1 beginner level, the word möglich is introduced as a core vocabulary item to help you express basic concepts of possibility and availability. At this stage, your primary goal is to learn how to make simple statements and ask basic questions. You will mostly use möglich as a predicative adjective, which means it comes after the verb sein (to be) and does not require any complex grammar rules or adjective endings. You will learn to say Das ist möglich (That is possible) to agree with a proposal or confirm that something can be done. Conversely, you will learn the negative form, Das ist nicht möglich (That is not possible), which is essential for setting boundaries or explaining that a request cannot be fulfilled. Asking questions is equally important; by simply swapping the subject and the verb, you can ask Ist das möglich? (Is that possible?). This is incredibly useful when traveling, such as asking if a seat is free, if you can pay with a credit card, or if a different size of clothing is available. You will also encounter the universal phrase Alles ist möglich (Everything is possible), which is easy to remember and widely understood. At this level, do not worry about using möglich in front of nouns (attributive use), as that requires understanding cases and declensions. Focus entirely on using it with the verb sein to communicate your basic needs, ask for permission, and understand simple answers from native speakers in everyday situations like shopping, ordering food, or buying tickets. Mastering these simple structures provides a solid foundation for more complex interactions later on.

As you progress to the A2 level, your use of möglich expands beyond simple present tense statements. You will begin to combine this adjective with modal verbs and different tenses, allowing you to express possibility in the past and future, and with varying degrees of certainty. For example, you will learn to use it with the verb können (can/to be able to), creating sentences like Das kann möglich sein (That can be possible). You will also start using the past tense of sein, allowing you to say Das war möglich (That was possible) or War das möglich? (Was that possible?). This is crucial for recounting past events or discussing things that were previously available but might not be anymore. Furthermore, at the A2 level, you will be introduced to basic subordinate clauses. You will learn the very common structure Es ist möglich, dass... (It is possible that...). This requires you to apply the rule of verb placement, moving the conjugated verb to the end of the dass-clause. For instance, Es ist möglich, dass er heute kommt (It is possible that he is coming today). You will also start encountering the word in simple written texts, such as emails or signs, where you might see phrases like so schnell wie möglich (as fast as possible). While you are still primarily using it predicatively, your ability to frame the concept of possibility within different timeframes and conditions significantly enhances your conversational flexibility, allowing you to participate in more detailed discussions about plans, schedules, and past experiences.

At the B1 intermediate level, your mastery of German grammar allows you to use möglich much more dynamically, particularly as an attributive adjective. This means you will start placing it directly in front of nouns, which requires you to apply correct adjective declension rules based on gender, number, and case (nominative, accusative, dative, genitive). You will comfortably construct phrases like eine mögliche Lösung (a possible solution), den möglichen Weg (the possible way), or mit allen möglichen Mitteln (with all possible means). This is a significant step up in fluency. Additionally, you will use möglich extensively in conditional sentences and hypothetical discussions, often pairing it with the Subjunktiv II (the subjunctive mood). You might say Wäre das möglich? (Would that be possible?) to sound more polite when making a request, which is highly valued in German culture. You will also learn to use infinitive clauses with zu, such as Es ist möglich, das Problem zu lösen (It is possible to solve the problem). At this level, your vocabulary expands to include related adverbs like möglicherweise (possibly), which you will use to express uncertainty in your opinions. You will also start distinguishing möglich from synonyms like machbar (doable) or denkbar (conceivable), choosing the right word for the specific context. In professional or formal settings, you will confidently use phrases like so bald wie möglich (as soon as possible) in your written correspondence. Overall, at B1, möglich becomes a versatile tool for nuanced expression, polite requests, and complex sentence building.

Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level means you are using möglich with a high degree of grammatical accuracy and stylistic awareness. You are no longer just stating facts; you are negotiating, debating, and analyzing possibilities in both professional and academic contexts. At this stage, you will frequently use compound words that incorporate möglich, such as bestmöglich (best possible) or größtmöglich (greatest possible), to add precision to your arguments. For example, you might write in an essay or a report: Wir müssen den bestmöglichen Kompromiss finden (We must find the best possible compromise). You will also master complex prepositional phrases and fixed expressions, such as im Rahmen des Möglichen (within the realm of possibility) or nach Möglichkeit (if possible / as far as possible). These phrases are essential for sounding natural and sophisticated in business meetings or formal discussions. Furthermore, your grasp of the Subjunktiv II allows you to construct elaborate hypothetical scenarios: Wenn wir mehr Zeit hätten, wäre ein besseres Ergebnis möglich gewesen (If we had had more time, a better result would have been possible). You will also critically evaluate texts and spoken arguments, identifying when someone is presenting something as merely möglich versus wahrscheinlich (probable) or sicher (certain). At B2, your errors in adjective declension with möglich should be minimal, even in complex dative and genitive constructions. You use the word not just to communicate basic needs, but to navigate complex social interactions, express subtle doubts, and articulate detailed strategic plans in a German-speaking environment.

At the C1 advanced level, your use of möglich is characterized by native-like fluency, precision, and an understanding of subtle stylistic registers. You manipulate the word effortlessly within highly complex syntactic structures, including extended participial phrases and intricate subordinate clauses. You are comfortable reading and producing academic, literary, or highly formal corporate texts where the concept of possibility is discussed abstractly. You will frequently use the nominalized form, das Mögliche (the possible), in philosophical or strategic discussions, contrasting it with das Unmögliche (the impossible) or das Nötige (the necessary). For instance, you might analyze a political situation by stating: Die Politik ist die Kunst des Möglichen (Politics is the art of the possible). You seamlessly integrate advanced idioms and collocations into your speech, such as alle Hebel in Bewegung setzen, um etwas möglich zu machen (to pull out all the stops to make something possible). You also understand the subtle irony or skepticism that can be conveyed through intonation when someone says Das ist ja alles schön und gut, aber ist es auch möglich? (That is all well and good, but is it actually possible?). At this level, you effortlessly distinguish between near-synonyms like machbar, realisierbar, denkbar, and potenziell, selecting the exact word that fits the semantic nuance of your argument. Your writing features sophisticated compounds like wahlmöglich (optional) or expressions like so gut wie möglich (as well as possible) integrated flawlessly into complex sentence architectures. You use möglich not just as a vocabulary word, but as a conceptual tool for advanced discourse and persuasion.

At the C2 mastery level, your command of möglich and its derivatives is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You possess a deep, intuitive understanding of the word's etymological roots and its historical usage in German literature and philosophy. You can engage in profound discussions about the nature of potentiality, perhaps referencing philosophical texts that explore the dichotomy between Möglichkeit (possibility) and Wirklichkeit (reality). You effortlessly navigate the most complex grammatical structures, including archaic or highly literary phrasing where möglich might be used in unconventional syntactic positions for stylistic effect. You understand and can produce regional variations and highly specific jargon that incorporates the concept of possibility. In professional contexts, such as legal or diplomatic negotiations, you use phrases involving möglich with absolute precision, understanding that the difference between eine mögliche Gefahr (a possible danger) and eine potenzielle Gefahr (a potential danger) can have significant legal implications. You are also adept at using the word in creative writing, employing it to build suspense, express existential doubt, or articulate complex emotional states. You can play with the language, perhaps creating spontaneous compound words or using established ones like unmöglich in its colloquial sense to mean outrageous or unacceptable (Das ist ja unmöglich! - That is outrageous!). At C2, möglich is fully integrated into your linguistic repertoire, allowing you to express the most abstract, nuanced, and sophisticated thoughts with complete confidence and rhetorical elegance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

möglich in 30 Seconds

Means 'possible' or 'feasible'.
Used with 'sein' (Das ist möglich).
Takes endings before nouns (mögliche Lösung).
Opposite is 'unmöglich' (impossible).

The German word möglich is an essential adjective that translates directly to the English word possible. It is a fundamental vocabulary word that learners encounter very early in their German language journey, typically at the A1 level. Understanding how to use möglich correctly opens up a vast array of communicative possibilities, allowing you to express capability, potential, options, and feasibility in both everyday conversations and formal contexts. The concept of possibility is universal, but the way German speakers express it can carry subtle cultural and linguistic nuances that are important to master. When you say that something is möglich, you are stating that it can be done, that it might happen, or that it is available as a choice. This word is derived from the verb mögen, which historically meant to have the power or ability to do something, a meaning that is still preserved in the related noun die Macht, meaning power or might. Over centuries, the adjective möglich evolved to describe situations, actions, or events that are within the realm of reality or capability. In contemporary German, you will hear this word constantly. Whether you are asking if a seat is available, inquiring if a task can be completed by a certain deadline, or discussing hypothetical scenarios, möglich is the go-to word.

Everyday Context: In daily life, people use it to ask for favors or check availability, such as asking if it is possible to change an appointment.

Ist es möglich, morgen zu kommen?

Furthermore, the word is deeply embedded in German customer service and professional environments. When a customer requests a special modification to a product, the standard positive reply is Das ist möglich. Conversely, German culture values directness, so if something cannot be done, you will hear a clear and unambiguous Das ist leider nicht möglich, rather than a vague maybe. This directness is not considered rude; rather, it is appreciated for its clarity and efficiency.

Professional Context: In business, feasibility studies and project planning rely heavily on discussing what is möglich within a given timeframe and budget.

Eine Lieferung bis Freitag ist durchaus möglich.

Another fascinating aspect of möglich is its use in motivational or optimistic statements. The phrase Alles ist möglich (Everything is possible) is just as common in German as it is in English, serving as a slogan for sports brands, political campaigns, and personal encouragement.

Mit harter Arbeit ist alles möglich.

It is also important to distinguish between möglich and related concepts like vielleicht (maybe) or wahrscheinlich (probably). While vielleicht expresses uncertainty and wahrscheinlich expresses a high likelihood, möglich simply establishes that the probability is greater than zero. It states that the conditions exist for something to happen, without necessarily predicting that it will.

Philosophical Context: In literature and philosophy, the concept of the possible (das Mögliche) is often contrasted with the actual (das Wirkliche), exploring human potential.

Wir müssen das Mögliche versuchen, um das Unmögliche zu erreichen.

Ist ein Kompromiss möglich?

By mastering this word, you equip yourself with a vital tool for navigating the German-speaking world, allowing you to negotiate, inquire, and express hope with confidence and precision. Whether you are traveling through Berlin, working in Vienna, or studying in Zurich, knowing how to articulate what is possible will significantly enhance your communicative competence and cultural integration.

Using the word möglich in German sentences is generally straightforward, but it requires an understanding of basic German sentence structure, particularly the placement of adjectives and the use of the verb sein. Because möglich is an adjective, it can be used in two primary ways: predicatively and attributively. Predicative use is by far the most common for beginners. In this structure, the adjective comes after a linking verb, usually sein (to be), and it does not take any adjective endings. This makes it incredibly easy to use. For example, you simply say Das ist möglich (That is possible). The word remains exactly the same regardless of the gender or number of the subject.

Predicative Use: The adjective stands alone after the verb sein and does not change its ending. This is the simplest and most frequent way to use the word.

Eine schnelle Lösung ist möglich.

The second way to use möglich is attributively, meaning it comes directly before a noun to describe it. When used this way, it must take the appropriate adjective ending based on the gender, case, and number of the noun, as well as the article preceding it. This requires a solid grasp of German declension rules. For instance, if you want to say a possible solution, you must say eine mögliche Lösung, because Lösung is feminine and requires the -e ending in the nominative case with an indefinite article.

Attributive Use: The adjective precedes the noun and must be declined according to German grammar rules for case, gender, and number.

Wir diskutieren alle möglichen Optionen.

Another very common sentence structure involves using the dummy subject es (it). You will frequently hear Es ist möglich, dass... (It is possible that...). This structure introduces a subordinate clause, which means the conjugated verb in the following clause must be pushed to the very end of the sentence. This is a crucial rule in German syntax.

Subordinate Clauses: When followed by a dass-clause, the main verb of the dependent clause moves to the final position.

Es ist möglich, dass es heute regnet.

You can also use möglich with an infinitive clause using zu. For example, Es ist möglich, das zu tun (It is possible to do that). In this case, the infinitive phrase provides more information about what exactly is possible. Furthermore, möglich is often combined with adverbs to modify the degree of possibility. You might hear so schnell wie möglich (as fast as possible), which is an extremely common fixed expression used in both personal and professional communication.

Bitte antworten Sie so bald wie möglich.

Das ist absolut nicht möglich.

By practicing these different sentence structures, you will transition from making simple statements to expressing complex thoughts about feasibility and potential, significantly improving your fluency and confidence in German.

The word möglich is ubiquitous in the German language, and you will encounter it in virtually every environment where German is spoken. Its versatility means it bridges the gap between highly formal bureaucratic language and casual, everyday street slang. Understanding the contexts in which this word appears will help you anticipate its use and respond appropriately. One of the most common places you will hear möglich is in the service industry. Whether you are at a restaurant, a hotel reception, or a retail store, interactions frequently revolve around what can or cannot be done. If you ask a waiter to substitute a side dish, they will likely respond with Ja, das ist möglich (Yes, that is possible) or Nein, das ist leider nicht möglich (No, unfortunately that is not possible).

Service Industry: Used constantly by staff to confirm or deny customer requests regarding modifications, availability, or special accommodations.

Ein spätes Check-out ist gegen Aufpreis möglich.

Another major domain for this word is public transportation. In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, train travel is a massive part of daily life. Announcements at train stations and on public transit apps frequently use the word möglich to inform passengers about connections. If a train is delayed, you might hear an announcement stating that a specific connection is no longer possible.

Public Transportation: Used in announcements and schedules to indicate whether transfers or specific routes can be successfully completed.

Der Anschluss nach München ist noch möglich.

In the workplace, möglich is a cornerstone of professional communication. During meetings, colleagues discuss whether project deadlines are feasible, using phrases like Ist dieser Zeitplan möglich? (Is this timeline possible?). It is also heavily used in written communication, such as emails, where professionals request actions to be completed so bald wie möglich (as soon as possible).

Corporate Environment: Essential for project management, scheduling, and formal email correspondence to negotiate terms and deadlines.

Bitte senden Sie mir die Dokumente so schnell wie möglich.

Beyond these structured environments, you will hear it in casual conversations among friends. When planning a weekend trip or a night out, friends will debate what activities are possible given the weather or their budget. You might also hear it used in a slightly exasperated tone when someone is confronted with an unbelievable situation, exclaiming Das ist doch nicht möglich! (That is just not possible!), which is equivalent to saying I can't believe it!

Dass er schon wieder zu spät ist, das ist doch nicht möglich!

Ein Treffen am Wochenende wäre möglich.

Finally, in the realm of news and media, journalists frequently use the word to discuss potential political outcomes, economic forecasts, or scientific discoveries. Phrases like eine mögliche Koalition (a possible coalition) or mögliche Nebenwirkungen (possible side effects) are standard journalistic terminology. By paying attention to these diverse contexts, you will develop a rich, intuitive understanding of how to deploy this crucial word in your own German conversations.

While möglich is a relatively simple word to translate, English speakers frequently make several specific mistakes when using it in German. These errors usually stem from direct translation habits, misunderstandings of German grammar rules, or confusion with similar-sounding words. By being aware of these pitfalls, you can significantly improve the accuracy and natural flow of your German. One of the most prevalent mistakes is incorrect adjective declension. Because English adjectives never change their endings, learners often forget that German adjectives must agree with the noun they modify when used attributively.

Declension Errors: Failing to add the correct ending to möglich when it comes directly before a noun, such as saying ein möglich Weg instead of ein möglicher Weg.

Falsch: Das ist eine möglich Antwort. Richtig: Das ist eine mögliche Antwort.

Another common error involves sentence structure, particularly when using the phrase Es ist möglich, dass... (It is possible that...). In English, the word order in the following clause remains the same as a normal sentence. In German, the conjunction dass forces the conjugated verb to the very end of the clause. Learners frequently forget this rule and leave the verb in the second position.

Word Order with Dass: Forgetting to move the verb to the end of the subordinate clause introduced by dass.

Falsch: Es ist möglich, dass er kommt heute. Richtig: Es ist möglich, dass er heute kommt.

Pronunciation also poses a challenge for many learners. The word contains the ö umlaut and the ch sound, both of which do not exist in standard English. Learners often pronounce the ö like an English o or u, and the ch like a hard k or an sh. The ö should be pronounced by shaping your lips to say o but trying to say the e in hey. The ch in möglich is the Ich-Laut, a soft, hissing sound made by pushing air between the tongue and the hard palate, not a hard k sound.

Pronunciation: Mispronouncing the umlaut ö or substituting the soft ch sound with a hard k or sh sound.

Achten Sie auf die weiche Aussprache am Ende von möglich.

Finally, learners sometimes confuse möglich with eventuell. While both relate to possibility, eventuell translates closer to possibly or perhaps as an adverb, whereas möglich is the core adjective for possible. You would say Das ist möglich, but you would say Ich komme eventuell später (I will possibly come later). Mixing these up can lead to awkward phrasing.

Verwechseln Sie nicht möglich mit eventuell.

Ist es möglich, diesen Fehler zu vermeiden?

By focusing on correct adjective endings, proper subordinate clause word order, accurate pronunciation of the umlaut and consonant clusters, and distinguishing it from similar vocabulary, you will master the use of this essential German word.

Expanding your vocabulary beyond the basic word möglich allows you to express nuances of possibility, feasibility, and likelihood with much greater precision. While möglich is the perfect all-purpose word for possible, German offers a rich variety of synonyms and related terms that native speakers use to convey specific shades of meaning. Understanding these alternatives will elevate your German from a beginner level to a more advanced, natural-sounding proficiency. One of the most common alternatives in a practical, everyday context is machbar. Derived from the verb machen (to make or do), machbar translates literally to doable or feasible. It is highly colloquial and frequently used in the workplace or when planning tasks. If someone asks if a project can be finished by Friday, replying with Das ist machbar sounds very proactive and practical, emphasizing the execution of the task rather than just its theoretical possibility.

Machbar: Translates to doable or feasible. Focuses on the practical execution of a task. Very common in business and casual planning.

Das Projekt ist bis Freitag absolut machbar, also durchaus möglich.

Another excellent alternative is denkbar, which comes from the verb denken (to think). Denkbar translates to conceivable or imaginable. It is used when discussing hypothetical scenarios or theoretical possibilities. If a political outcome has never happened before but could theoretically occur, a journalist might describe it as ein denkbares Szenario (a conceivable scenario). It emphasizes that the mind can comprehend the possibility, even if it is unlikely.

Denkbar: Translates to conceivable or imaginable. Used for theoretical or hypothetical situations rather than concrete tasks.

Es ist denkbar, aber nicht sehr wahrscheinlich, obwohl es möglich bleibt.

For more formal or technical contexts, you might encounter the word realisierbar. This translates to realizable or implementable. It is frequently used in engineering, architecture, and high-level corporate planning to discuss whether a design or strategy can actually be brought into reality given current constraints. It sounds much more professional and academic than the simple möglich.

Realisierbar: Translates to realizable. Highly formal, used in technical, financial, or architectural contexts to denote that a plan can be executed.

Dieser Bauplan ist finanziell nicht realisierbar, also nicht möglich.

It is also vital to understand words that express degrees of likelihood, which are often confused with possibility. Wahrscheinlich means probable or likely, indicating a high chance of occurrence. Eventuell means possibly or perhaps, often used as an adverb to introduce a tentative idea. Potenziell means potential, used similarly to English to describe latent capabilities or risks.

Ein möglicher Ausweg ist eventuell machbar.

Das ist die bestmögliche und einzig mögliche Lösung.

By integrating words like machbar, denkbar, and realisierbar into your vocabulary, you will be able to articulate exactly what kind of possibility you are talking about, making your German much more expressive, accurate, and sophisticated.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The English word 'might' (as in 'I might go') and the German word 'möglich' share the exact same ancient Germanic root, which is why they both deal with potential and possibility.

Pronunciation Guide

UK [ˈmøːklɪç]

US [ˈmøːklɪç]

MÖG-lich (stress is on the first syllable)

Rhymes With

kläglich täglich unsäglich erträglich behaglich fraglich kläglich verträglich

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ö' as an English 'o' or 'u'.
Pronouncing the final 'ch' as a hard 'k' (like in 'loch' or 'lock').
Pronouncing the final 'ch' as 'sh' (like in 'shoe').
Forgetting to stress the first syllable.
Saying 'mog-lich' without the umlaut sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize and understand in written texts.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of adjective declension when used before a noun.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to use predicatively, but pronunciation of 'ö' and 'ch' can be tricky.

Listening 2/5

Easily distinguishable, though the soft 'ch' might be missed by beginners.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

sein das nicht alles können

Learn Next

unmöglich die Möglichkeit vielleicht wahrscheinlich machbar

Advanced

ermöglichen potenziell realisierbar denkbar womöglich

Grammar to Know

Adjective Declension (Predicative)

Das Auto ist schnell. Das ist möglich. (No ending)

Adjective Declension (Attributive)

Der schnelle Wagen. Die mögliche Lösung. (Takes ending)

Subordinate Clauses with 'dass'

Es ist möglich, dass er heute nach Hause kommt. (Verb at the end)

Infinitive Clauses with 'zu'

Es ist möglich, das Problem schnell zu lösen.

Comparative Equality

Er rennt so schnell wie möglich.

Examples by Level

Das ist möglich.

That is possible.

Predicative adjective, no ending required.

Ist das möglich?

Is that possible?

Inverted word order for a question.

Das ist nicht möglich.

That is not possible.

Negation with 'nicht' placed before the adjective.

Alles ist möglich.

Everything is possible.

Simple subject 'Alles' with the verb 'ist'.

Ein Ticket ist möglich.

A ticket is possible.

Basic noun and verb structure.

Heute ist es möglich.

Today it is possible.

Time adverb 'heute' at the beginning.

Ist ein Termin möglich?

Is an appointment possible?

Question asking for availability.

Ja, das ist sehr möglich.

Yes, that is very possible.

Intensifier 'sehr' used before the adjective.

Es ist möglich, dass er kommt.

It is possible that he is coming.

Subordinate clause with 'dass', verb at the end.

War das gestern möglich?

Was that possible yesterday?

Past tense of 'sein' (war).

Das kann möglich sein.

That can be possible.

Modal verb 'kann' with infinitive 'sein'.

Bitte antworte so schnell wie möglich.

Please answer as fast as possible.

Fixed comparative phrase 'so [adjective] wie möglich'.

Ist es möglich, hier zu parken?

Is it possible to park here?

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

Ein Treffen ist morgen möglich.

A meeting is possible tomorrow.

Time expression 'morgen' in the middle field.

Das ist leider nicht möglich.

That is unfortunately not possible.

Adverb 'leider' used to soften the negative.

Wir machen alles möglich.

We make everything possible.

Verb 'machen' used with 'möglich' as an object complement.

Das ist eine mögliche Lösung für unser Problem.

That is a possible solution for our problem.

Attributive adjective with feminine ending '-e'.

Wäre es möglich, das Fenster zu öffnen?

Would it be possible to open the window?

Subjunktiv II 'wäre' for a polite request.

Wir haben alle möglichen Optionen diskutiert.

We have discussed all possible options.

Attributive adjective after 'alle', taking the '-en' ending.

Es ist durchaus möglich, dass wir gewinnen.

It is quite possible that we will win.

Adverb 'durchaus' used for emphasis.

Gibt es einen möglichen Ausweg?

Is there a possible way out?

Accusative masculine ending '-en'.

Ich brauche die Dokumente so bald wie möglich.

I need the documents as soon as possible.

Common business phrase 'so bald wie möglich'.

Das ist die einzig mögliche Erklärung.

That is the only possible explanation.

Adverb 'einzig' modifying the adjective.

Er hat den bestmöglichen Preis bekommen.

He got the best possible price.

Compound adjective 'bestmöglich' declined in accusative.

Wir müssen im Rahmen des Möglichen handeln.

We must act within the realm of the possible.

Nominalized adjective in the genitive case 'des Möglichen'.

Bitte informieren Sie mich nach Möglichkeit sofort.

Please inform me immediately, if possible.

Fixed prepositional phrase 'nach Möglichkeit'.

Eine solche Entwicklung schien bis vor kurzem kaum möglich.

Such a development seemed hardly possible until recently.

Adverb 'kaum' modifying 'möglich' with the verb 'scheinen'.

Wir streben den größtmöglichen Erfolg an.

We are striving for the greatest possible success.

Compound adjective 'größtmöglich' in accusative masculine.

Es ist theoretisch möglich, aber praktisch schwer umsetzbar.

It is theoretically possible, but practically difficult to implement.

Contrast between 'theoretisch' and 'praktisch'.

Hätten wir das gewusst, wäre eine andere Entscheidung möglich gewesen.

Had we known that, a different decision would have been possible.

Subjunktiv II past perfect construction.

Der Arzt tat alles Menschenmögliche, um den Patienten zu retten.

The doctor did everything humanly possible to save the patient.

Nominalized compound adjective 'Menschenmögliche'.

Wir prüfen alle in Frage kommenden möglichen Alternativen.

We are examining all eligible possible alternatives.

Complex extended participial phrase preceding the noun.

Die Politik wird oft als die Kunst des Möglichen bezeichnet.

Politics is often described as the art of the possible.

Philosophical idiom using the nominalized genitive.

Er versuchte, die Situation so geräuschlos wie möglich zu bereinigen.

He tried to resolve the situation as quietly as possible.

Advanced vocabulary 'geräuschlos' in a comparative structure.

Ein solches Vorgehen ist unter den gegebenen Umständen schlichtweg nicht möglich.

Such an approach is simply not possible under the given circumstances.

Formal register with 'schlichtweg' and 'unter den gegebenen Umständen'.

Sie haben alle Hebel in Bewegung gesetzt, um das Projekt möglich zu machen.

They pulled out all the stops to make the project possible.

Idiomatic expression 'alle Hebel in Bewegung setzen'.

Das grenzt an das Unmögliche, ist aber theoretisch noch im Bereich des Möglichen.

That borders on the impossible, but is theoretically still within the realm of the possible.

Contrasting nominalized forms 'das Unmögliche' and 'des Möglichen'.

Wir müssen eine schnellstmögliche Klärung des Sachverhalts herbeiführen.

We must bring about the fastest possible clarification of the facts.

Superlative compound 'schnellstmöglich' used attributively.

Es gilt, das Machbare vom bloß Möglichen zu trennen.

It is necessary to separate the feasible from the merely possible.

Advanced syntactic structure with 'Es gilt' and nominalized adjectives.

Ihre Forderungen sind gelinde gesagt unmöglich zu erfüllen.

Her demands are, to put it mildly, impossible to fulfill.

Idiomatic insert 'gelinde gesagt' with the antonym 'unmöglich'.

In der Philosophie Kants wird die Bedingung der Möglichkeit der Erfahrung untersucht.

In Kant's philosophy, the condition of the possibility of experience is examined.

Highly academic discourse using the noun form 'Möglichkeit'.

Obgleich es kontraintuitiv erscheinen mag, ist dieses physikalische Phänomen durchaus möglich.

Although it may seem counterintuitive, this physical phenomenon is entirely possible.

Concessive clause with 'obgleich' and elevated vocabulary.

Der Autor spielt virtuos mit den Grenzen des sprachlich Möglichen.

The author plays masterfully with the limits of what is linguistically possible.

Adverbial modification of a nominalized adjective 'des sprachlich Möglichen'.

Ein solches Ansinnen ist derart abwegig, dass es nicht einmal als theoretisch möglich erachtet werden kann.

Such a request is so absurd that it cannot even be considered theoretically possible.

Complex consecutive clause with 'derart... dass' and passive voice.

Er hat sich das Unmögliche zum Ziel gesetzt, um das maximal Mögliche zu erreichen.

He set the impossible as his goal in order to achieve the maximum possible.

Rhetorical juxtaposition of nominalized extremes.

Die Implikationen einer solchen Entdeckung sprengen den Rahmen des bisher für möglich Gehaltenen.

The implications of such a discovery go beyond the scope of what was previously thought possible.

Extended participial attribute functioning as a nominalized noun phrase.

Es entbehrt nicht einer gewissen Ironie, dass ausgerechnet diese Lösung als die einzig mögliche präsentiert wird.

It is not without a certain irony that this solution of all things is presented as the only possible one.

Highly formal introductory phrase 'Es entbehrt nicht...'.

Möglich, dass er sich irrt; gewiss ist jedoch, dass er nicht lügt.

It is possible that he is mistaken; what is certain, however, is that he is not lying.

Elliptical sentence structure starting directly with the adjective for stylistic effect.

Common Collocations

so schnell wie möglich

alles Mögliche

im Rahmen des Möglichen

nach Möglichkeit

eine mögliche Lösung

durchaus möglich

kaum möglich

bestmöglich

die einzig mögliche

soweit möglich

Common Phrases

Alles ist möglich.

— Everything is possible. Used as a motivational phrase or to express that one should not rule anything out.

Gib nicht auf, alles ist möglich.

Ist das möglich?

— Is that possible? A standard question to ask for availability, permission, or feasibility.

Ist das möglich, dass ich bar bezahle?

Das ist nicht möglich.

— That is not possible. The standard, polite but firm way to refuse a request or state impossibility.

Ein Umtausch ist leider nicht möglich.

Das ist ja unmöglich!

— That is outrageous! Used colloquially to express shock or anger at someone's bad behavior.

Wie er mit dir spricht, das ist ja unmöglich!

Wenn möglich...

— If possible... Used to add a polite condition to a request.

Bitte senden Sie das Dokument, wenn möglich, heute noch.

So bald wie möglich.

— As soon as possible. A very common phrase in business and personal communication to request urgency.

Ich melde mich so bald wie möglich.

Machen wir es möglich.

— Let's make it happen. A proactive phrase used in teamwork or customer service.

Es ist schwierig, aber wir machen es möglich.

Für möglich halten.

— To consider possible. Used to express belief in the potential of an event.

Ich hätte das nie für möglich gehalten.

Alle möglichen Leute.

— All sorts of people. A colloquial way to say a wide, undefined variety of people or things.

Auf der Party waren alle möglichen Leute.

Das einzig Mögliche.

— The only possible thing. Used when there are no other options left.

Rücktritt war das einzig Mögliche.

Often Confused With

möglich vs vielleicht

'Vielleicht' is an adverb meaning 'maybe' or 'perhaps'. 'Möglich' is an adjective meaning 'possible'. You say 'Vielleicht komme ich' but 'Es ist möglich, dass ich komme'.

möglich vs eventuell

'Eventuell' means 'possibly' or 'perhaps', not 'eventually'. It is often used as an adverb, whereas 'möglich' is the core adjective for feasibility.

möglich vs wahrscheinlich

'Wahrscheinlich' means 'probable' or 'likely' (high chance). 'Möglich' just means 'possible' (chance is greater than zero, but not necessarily high).

Idioms & Expressions

"alle Hebel in Bewegung setzen"

— To pull out all the stops. To do everything possible to achieve a goal.

Wir werden alle Hebel in Bewegung setzen, um das Projekt zu retten.

neutral

"das Unmögliche möglich machen"

— To make the impossible possible. To achieve something incredibly difficult.

Unser Team hat das Unmögliche möglich gemacht.

neutral

"die Kunst des Möglichen"

— The art of the possible. Often used to describe politics or pragmatic compromise.

Politik ist bekanntlich die Kunst des Möglichen.

formal

"im Bereich des Möglichen liegen"

— To be within the realm of possibility. To be a realistic option.

Ein Sieg liegt durchaus noch im Bereich des Möglichen.

formal

"nichts unversucht lassen"

— To leave no stone unturned. To try every possible option.

Der Arzt ließ nichts unversucht, um ihr zu helfen.

neutral

"aus allen Wolken fallen"

— To be completely surprised (often when something deemed impossible happens).

Als er die Nachricht hörte, fiel er aus allen Wolken.

informal

"auf Biegen und Brechen"

— By hook or by crook. Trying to make something possible at any cost.

Er wollte den Termin auf Biegen und Brechen einhalten.

informal

"wo ein Wille ist, ist auch ein Weg"

— Where there is a will, there is a way. Meaning that if you want it, it is possible.

Mach dir keine Sorgen, wo ein Wille ist, ist auch ein Weg.

neutral

"etwas möglich machen"

— To facilitate something or make it happen against the odds.

Danke, dass Sie diesen Termin so kurzfristig möglich gemacht haben.

neutral

"sich alle Optionen offenhalten"

— To keep all possible options open. Not committing to one path.

Wir sollten uns vorerst alle Optionen offenhalten.

neutral

Easily Confused

möglich vs vielleicht

Both express uncertainty or potential.

'Vielleicht' is an adverb (maybe). 'Möglich' is an adjective (possible). You cannot say 'Das ist vielleicht' to mean 'That is possible'; you must say 'Das ist möglich'.

Vielleicht regnet es. (Maybe it will rain.) vs. Es ist möglich, dass es regnet. (It is possible that it rains.)

möglich vs eventuell

False friend with English 'eventually', and overlaps with possibility.

'Eventuell' means 'possibly' or 'if need be'. It is used to suggest a tentative option, while 'möglich' states a factual capability.

Wir können eventuell später sprechen. (We can possibly speak later.)

möglich vs machbar

Synonym for 'möglich'.

'Machbar' specifically means 'doable' or 'executable' for tasks, whereas 'möglich' is a broader term for any kind of possibility, including theoretical ones.

Die Aufgabe ist machbar. (The task is doable.)

möglich vs wahrscheinlich

Both deal with likelihood.

'Wahrscheinlich' means 'probable' (e.g., 80% chance). 'Möglich' means 'possible' (e.g., 1% to 99% chance).

Es ist möglich, aber nicht wahrscheinlich. (It is possible, but not probable.)

möglich vs unmöglich

Direct antonym, but has colloquial uses.

While it means 'impossible', it is also used to describe terrible behavior, which 'möglich' cannot do.

Sein Verhalten war unmöglich! (His behavior was outrageous!)

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + ist + möglich.

Das ist möglich.

Ist + [Subject] + möglich?

Ist ein Termin möglich?

Es ist möglich, dass + [Subject] + ... + [Verb].

Es ist möglich, dass es regnet.

so + [Adjective] + wie möglich.

Komm so schnell wie möglich.

Wäre es möglich, ... zu + [Infinitive]?

Wäre es möglich, das zu ändern?

[Article] + möglich[Ending] + [Noun].

Eine mögliche Antwort.

im Rahmen des Möglichen.

Wir helfen im Rahmen des Möglichen.

alles Menschenmögliche tun.

Wir tun alles Menschenmögliche.

Word Family

Nouns

die Möglichkeit (the possibility)

das Mögliche (the possible)

die Unmöglichkeit (the impossibility)

Verbs

ermöglichen (to make possible / to enable)

Adjectives

unmöglich (impossible)

bestmöglich (best possible)

größtmöglich (greatest possible)

schnellstmöglich (fastest possible)

mögen (to like / may)

die Macht (power)

machbar (doable)

eventuell (possibly)

wahrscheinlich (probably)

How to Use It

frequency

Top 500 most common words in spoken and written German.

Common Mistakes

Das ist eine möglich Lösung. → Das ist eine mögliche Lösung.
When 'möglich' comes directly before a noun (Lösung), it must take an adjective ending. Since 'Lösung' is feminine, it needs the '-e' ending.
Es ist möglich, dass er kommt heute. → Es ist möglich, dass er heute kommt.
The conjunction 'dass' (that) forces the conjugated verb (kommt) to the very end of the subordinate clause.
Ich komme möglich morgen. → Ich komme vielleicht morgen.
'Möglich' is an adjective (possible). You cannot use it as an adverb to mean 'maybe'. You must use 'vielleicht' (maybe) or 'möglicherweise' (possibly).
Das ist nicht machbar für mich zu tun. → Das ist für mich nicht möglich.
Directly translating 'That is not doable for me to do' sounds awkward in German. 'Das ist für mich nicht möglich' is the natural way to express this.
Er hat alles mögliche versucht. → Er hat alles Mögliche versucht.
When used as a nominalized adjective after 'alles', 'Mögliche' acts as a noun and must be capitalized.

Tips

No Endings After 'Sein'

Remember that when 'möglich' comes after the verb 'sein' (to be), it never takes an ending. Always say 'Das ist möglich', never 'Das ist mögliche'.

The Soft 'CH'

The 'ch' in 'möglich' is soft. Don't say 'mog-lick'. Push air between your tongue and the roof of your mouth like a hissing cat.

Learn the Noun Form

Immediately learn the noun 'die Möglichkeit' (the possibility). It is just as common as the adjective and very useful.

So [Adj] wie möglich

Memorize the pattern 'so + adjective + wie möglich'. It means 'as [adjective] as possible'. E.g., 'so gut wie möglich' (as good as possible).

Appreciate Directness

Don't be offended if a German tells you 'Das ist nicht möglich'. It is not rude; it is just clear and honest communication.

Dass-Clauses

When you use 'Es ist möglich, dass...', always remember to kick the conjugated verb to the very end of the sentence.

Synonym Upgrade

In business meetings, try swapping 'möglich' for 'machbar' (doable) to sound more proactive and professional.

Capitalization

If you write 'alles Mögliche' (all sorts of things), remember to capitalize 'Mögliche' because it acts as a noun.

Alle Hebel in Bewegung setzen

Use the idiom 'alle Hebel in Bewegung setzen, um etwas möglich zu machen' to impress native speakers with your advanced vocabulary.

Mögen Connection

Remember that 'möglich' comes from 'mögen' (to like/may). If you 'may' do something, it is 'possible'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a MUG (Mög) with a LEEK (lich) growing out of it. Is it POSSIBLE to grow a leek in a mug? Yes, it is MÖGLICH!

Visual Association

Visualize a green checkmark over a difficult task, with the word MÖGLICH glowing brightly, signaling that the task can indeed be completed.

Word Web

möglich unmöglich Möglichkeit ermöglichen machbar vielleicht können sein

Challenge

Look around your room and identify three things you can physically do right now. For each, say out loud: 'Das ist möglich.' (e.g., 'Es ist möglich, das Buch zu lesen.')

Word Origin

The word 'möglich' originates from the Middle High German 'mügelich' and the Old High German 'mugalih'. These forms are derived from the Proto-Germanic root '*maganan', which meant 'to be able' or 'to have power'.

Original meaning: Originally, it meant having the physical power or ability to do something, closely tied to the concept of might or strength.

Indo-European > Germanic > West Germanic > High German

Cultural Context

There are no specific cultural sensitivities or offensive connotations associated with the word 'möglich'. However, using 'unmöglich' to describe a person's behavior (Du bist unmöglich!) is a strong criticism.

English speakers often overuse 'vielleicht' (maybe) when they should use 'möglich'. Remember that 'möglich' is the adjective for 'possible', while 'vielleicht' is the adverb for 'maybe'.

'Nichts ist unmöglich, Toyota' (A famous, long-running advertising slogan in Germany for Toyota, meaning 'Nothing is impossible'). 'Die Kunst des Möglichen' (A phrase famously associated with Otto von Bismarck's definition of politics). 'Alles ist möglich' (A common pop song title and motivational phrase).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Customer Service

Ist das möglich?
Das ist leider nicht möglich.
Wir machen es möglich.
Wenn möglich, bitte...

Workplace/Business

So bald wie möglich.
Ist dieser Termin möglich?
Eine mögliche Alternative.
Im Rahmen des Möglichen.

Travel/Transport

Ist ein Anschluss möglich?
Eine Reservierung ist möglich.
Frühestmöglich.
Ist Kartenzahlung möglich?

Making Plans

Wäre es möglich, dass...
Alles ist möglich.
Das ist durchaus möglich.
Nach Möglichkeit.

Problem Solving

Die bestmögliche Lösung.
Das einzig Mögliche.
Alle möglichen Optionen.
Ist das machbar und möglich?

Conversation Starters

"Glaubst du, es ist möglich, in einem Jahr fließend Deutsch zu lernen?"

"Was hältst du für die bestmögliche Lösung für den Klimawandel?"

"Ist es möglich, dass wir uns morgen auf einen Kaffee treffen?"

"Hast du jemals etwas für unmöglich gehalten, das dann doch passiert ist?"

"Wäre es möglich, mir bei dieser Aufgabe kurz zu helfen?"

Journal Prompts

Schreibe über einen Traum, den du hast. Ist es möglich, ihn zu erreichen?

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der dir jemand gesagt hat: 'Das ist nicht möglich.' Wie hast du reagiert?

Was ist die bestmögliche Zukunft für dich in fünf Jahren?

Notiere drei Dinge, die du heute so gut wie möglich machen möchtest.

Glaubst du, dass Zeitreisen theoretisch möglich sind? Warum oder warum nicht?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, not directly. 'Möglich' means 'possible'. If you want to say 'maybe', you should use the word 'vielleicht'. However, you can say 'möglicherweise', which is an adverb that translates to 'possibly' and functions similarly to 'maybe'.

Yes, but only when it comes directly before a noun (attributive use), like 'eine mögliche Lösung'. When it comes after the verb 'sein' (predicative use), like 'Das ist möglich', it does not take any endings.

'Möglich' is the general word for 'possible' and can apply to facts, theories, and events. 'Machbar' comes from 'machen' (to make/do) and specifically means 'doable' or 'feasible', usually referring to tasks or projects.

The direct and most common translation is 'so bald wie möglich' or 'so schnell wie möglich'. You can also use the single compound word 'schnellstmöglich' in formal contexts.

Yes, it is very common. It translates exactly to 'Everything is possible' and is used in the same motivational or optimistic way as it is in English.

Shape your lips into a tight circle as if you are going to say the English letter 'O', but try to pronounce the English letter 'E' (as in 'hey'). This produces the German 'ö' sound.

German culture values directness and clarity. If something cannot be done, it is considered polite and efficient to say 'Das ist nicht möglich' immediately, rather than giving false hope with a 'maybe'.

Yes, it can be nominalized. 'Das Mögliche' means 'the possible' (as a concept), and 'die Möglichkeit' is the standard noun meaning 'the possibility' or 'the opportunity'.

It is a very common colloquial phrase meaning 'all sorts of things' or 'everything possible'. For example, 'Ich habe heute alles Mögliche gemacht' means 'I did all sorts of things today'.

While you can ask 'Ist dieser Platz möglich?', it is much more natural to ask 'Ist dieser Platz noch frei?' (Is this seat still free?). Use 'möglich' more for actions or events, like 'Ist es möglich, hier zu sitzen?'.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write 'That is possible' in German.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Basic A1 sentence.