It is not impossible that
Hedging expression to soften claims
Literally: It (subject) is (verb) not (negative) impossible (negative adjective) that (conjunction)
In 15 Seconds
- A double negative used to say 'maybe' very cautiously.
- Helps you avoid sounding too certain or aggressive.
- Common in professional, academic, or polite social settings.
Meaning
This phrase is a sneaky way to say 'maybe' or 'it's possible' without sounding too sure of yourself. It uses two negatives to create a soft, cautious 'yes' that helps you avoid being blamed if you're wrong.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business meeting
It is not impossible that we could see a profit by Q4.
It is possible we might make money by the end of the year.
Speculating about a celebrity
It is not impossible that they are getting back together.
Maybe they are dating again.
Admitting a small mistake
It is not impossible that I misread the invitation.
I might have read the invite wrong.
Cultural Background
This phrase is a classic example of British and American 'hedging'—a linguistic strategy to avoid over-commitment. It reflects a cultural value of modesty and intellectual caution, often seen in scientific papers or diplomatic negotiations. It became a staple of 'polite society' to avoid sounding arrogant or overly certain.
The 'Double Negative' Trick
In English, two negatives usually make a positive. Using 'not impossible' is a way to say 'yes' while keeping your fingers crossed behind your back.
Don't Overuse It!
If you use this in every sentence, you will sound indecisive or like you're hiding something. Use it once per conversation for maximum effect.
In 15 Seconds
- A double negative used to say 'maybe' very cautiously.
- Helps you avoid sounding too certain or aggressive.
- Common in professional, academic, or polite social settings.
What It Means
Think of this as the ultimate 'safety net' phrase. When you say it is not impossible that, you are technically saying something could happen. However, you are doing it in a very round-about way. It is a double negative. Not plus impossible equals possible. But it feels much weaker than just saying it is possible. It suggests a tiny window of chance. It is like saying, 'I am not saying yes, but I am not saying no either.'
How To Use It
You use this phrase at the start of a sentence to introduce a theory. It is usually followed by a full clause. For example: It is not impossible that I forgot my keys. You are admitting a mistake without sounding like a total disaster. It sounds sophisticated and a bit intellectual. It is great for when you want to sound like a detective in a movie. Or just someone who does not want to be held responsible for a bold claim.
When To Use It
Use it when you want to be extremely polite or cautious. It is perfect for office meetings when you have a wild idea. It works well when you are speculating about the future. Use it when you want to sound humble about your own knowledge. It is also great for avoiding an argument. If someone asks if you are wrong, this phrase is your best friend. It keeps the door open just a crack.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this if you need to be clear and direct. If your house is on fire, do not say, It is not impossible that we should leave. Just run! Avoid it in high-stakes emergencies or when giving simple instructions. It can sound 'wordy' or annoying if you use it too much. If you use it with friends at a loud bar, they might think you are being a bit too fancy. Keep it for moments that require a delicate touch.
Cultural Background
English speakers, especially in the UK and East Coast US, love 'understatement.' We often avoid being too direct because it feels aggressive. This phrase comes from a rhetorical device called 'litotes.' It is the art of using a negative to express a positive. It shows that you are thoughtful and careful with your words. It is deeply rooted in academic and legal cultures where being 100% sure is dangerous.
Common Variations
You might hear people say It's not entirely impossible to add even more cushion. Some might say It is not beyond the realms of possibility if they want to sound very dramatic. A shorter version is It's not out of the question. All of these serve the same purpose. They help you stay 'safe' while sharing an opinion. It is the linguistic equivalent of wearing a helmet while riding a tricycle.
Usage Notes
This is a C1-level phrase because it requires an understanding of nuance. It sits comfortably in the 'formal' to 'neutral' register and is a key tool for professional diplomacy.
The 'Double Negative' Trick
In English, two negatives usually make a positive. Using 'not impossible' is a way to say 'yes' while keeping your fingers crossed behind your back.
Don't Overuse It!
If you use this in every sentence, you will sound indecisive or like you're hiding something. Use it once per conversation for maximum effect.
The British 'Perhaps'
The British love this phrase because it avoids 'social friction.' It's considered very polite to not be 100% sure of yourself in the UK.
Examples
6It is not impossible that we could see a profit by Q4.
It is possible we might make money by the end of the year.
The speaker is being careful not to over-promise to the boss.
It is not impossible that they are getting back together.
Maybe they are dating again.
Used here to share gossip without sounding like you're stating a fact.
It is not impossible that I misread the invitation.
I might have read the invite wrong.
A polite way to admit you might be the one who messed up.
It is not impossible that my cat is actually an alien spy.
Maybe my cat is an alien.
Using a formal phrase for a silly topic creates a funny contrast.
It is not impossible that we can fix this, but it will take time.
We might be able to save our relationship.
Provides a small glimmer of hope without making a firm guarantee.
It's not impossible that I'll be 10 mins late, sorry!
I might be 10 minutes late.
Softens the blow of being late by making it sound like a 'possibility'.
Test Yourself
Choose the best word to complete the hedging expression.
It is not ___ that the project will be delayed.
The phrase uses the double negative 'not impossible' to mean 'possible but uncertain'.
Which phrase makes the claim sound the most cautious?
___ we will find a solution today.
This phrase is a 'hedge' which reduces the certainty of the statement.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of Saying 'Maybe'
Used with friends
Maybe / Might be
Standard daily use
It's possible that
Writing or meetings
It is not impossible that
When to use 'It is not impossible that'
Office Politics
Suggesting a coworker's error
Scientific Theory
Discussing unproven ideas
Polite Disagreement
Softening a 'no'
Legal/Academic
Writing a cautious report
Practice Bank
2 exercisesIt is not ___ that the project will be delayed.
The phrase uses the double negative 'not impossible' to mean 'possible but uncertain'.
___ we will find a solution today.
This phrase is a 'hedge' which reduces the certainty of the statement.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsTechnically yes, but emotionally no. Possible sounds like a 50/50 chance, while not impossible feels like a 10% chance.
It can be used in texts if you are being ironic or funny. For example, It is not impossible that I ate the last cookie.
No, that means 'It is impossible.' The 'un-' or 'im-' is crucial to the double negative meaning.
Maybe is short and direct. It is not impossible that sounds more considered, professional, and cautious.
Yes, it is perfectly correct. It is a common rhetorical device used to soften a statement.
Yes, it is excellent for academic writing. It shows you are aware that your conclusions might not be absolute.
It can! If you use it for something obvious, like It is not impossible that the sun will rise, it sounds very sarcastic.
The opposite would be It is highly unlikely or It is absolutely certain.
It is used in both, but it is a hallmark of the 'polite' and 'indirect' style often associated with British English.
Yes. If someone asks 'Can we win?', you can say 'It is not impossible.' It sounds very dramatic!
Related Phrases
Within the realm of possibility
Something that could actually happen.
Not out of the question
Still being considered as an option.
Stranger things have happened
Used when something unlikely is actually possible.
I wouldn't rule it out
I am not saying it's impossible.
