Meaning
Indicating that something can happen
Cultural Background
Latvians are known for being cautious. Saying 'Tas ir iespējams' is often a safer bet than a definitive 'Jā' (Yes). In meetings, this phrase indicates that the speaker is open to the idea but needs to verify the details. The phrase 'Viss ir iespējams' is a powerful cultural meme representing the post-independence success of the country. Possibility is often linked to 'gudrība' (wisdom) and 'spēks' (strength) in folk songs (dainas).
Shorten it!
In casual conversation, you can just say 'Iespējams' instead of the full 'Tas ir iespējams'.
Gender Check
Never say 'Tas ir iespējama' unless you are referring to a specific feminine noun.
Meaning
Indicating that something can happen
Shorten it!
In casual conversation, you can just say 'Iespējams' instead of the full 'Tas ir iespējams'.
Gender Check
Never say 'Tas ir iespējama' unless you are referring to a specific feminine noun.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to say 'It is possible'.
Tas ___ iespējams.
'ir' is the third-person singular of 'būt' (to be).
How do you say 'It was possible'?
Choose the correct past tense form:
'bija' is the past tense of 'ir'.
Match the Latvian phrase with its English meaning.
Match the following:
These are the most common variations of the phrase.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Vai mēs varam iet tagad? B: Jā, ___ ___ ___.
This is the standard way to agree to a plan.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesTas ___ iespējams.
'ir' is the third-person singular of 'būt' (to be).
Choose the correct past tense form:
'bija' is the past tense of 'ir'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the most common variations of the phrase.
A: Vai mēs varam iet tagad? B: Jā, ___ ___ ___.
This is the standard way to agree to a plan.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, but it sounds very formal. 'Vai es drīkstu?' is more common for 'May I?'.
'Iespējams' is more formal and implies logical possibility. 'Varbūt' is casual and implies simple doubt.
Related Phrases
Varbūt
synonymMaybe
Tas nav iespējams
contrastThat is impossible
Iespēja
builds onOpportunity / Chance
Ticami
similarLikely / Believable
