German word

denkbar

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈdɛŋkbaːɐ̯/

Meaning

  • adjectivepossible

Example

Ein denkbares Ergebnis hätte Folgen.

A possible result would have consequences.

Illustration for denkbar (possible)

More examples

Theoretisch ist eine Lösung denkbar.

A solution is theoretically possible.

Core concept

A mental path leads from the present situation to a possible outcome that can be pictured clearly.

Common phrases

  • theoretisch denkbar

    theoretically possible

  • kaum denkbar

    hardly conceivable

Similar words

möglich: Having the potential to occur or succeed.
wahrscheinlich: Considered likely because the odds of occurrence are high.
vorstellbar: Clearly imaginable as a scene, result, or situation.
realistisch: Consistent with practical conditions and likely to work.

Definition in German

Denkbar bedeutet, dass etwas als Möglichkeit vorstellbar ist; es kann prädikativ oder adverbial verwendet werden.

Word origin

Denkbar combines the verb denken, meaning 'to think', with the German suffix -bar, meaning 'able to be', and thus describes what can be thought.

Usage tips

  • In phrases such as 'denkbar einfach', denkbar intensifies the following adjective to mean 'as ... as conceivable', not merely 'possible'.

Other meanings

  • conceivableadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word