conceivable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
conceivable Word Meanings
- capable of being imagined or understood
- possible to conceive
- within the realm of possibility
conceivable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
conceivable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈsiː.və.bəl/
US
/kənˈsiː.və.bəl/
conceivable Word Etymology
con- = with + ceive = take; Latin 'concipere' (to take in, conceive) → Middle English 'conceiven' → English 'conceivable'. Imagine envisioning an idea in your mind, holding it as if it's tangible.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Conceivable describes something that can be imagined or understood within the limits of one’s current knowledge or experience. It signals possibility without asserting likelihood. In everyday speech you might say a plan is conceivably possible or a scenario is conceivable, meaning you can picture it taking place even if you doubt it will happen. It is different from merely 'possible' because something can be conceivable yet still quite unlikely. Learners often confuse conceivable with concepts like 'likely' or with 'conceive' (to become pregnant). In formal writing, pair it with nouns like scenario, outcome, or proposal to indicate that it can be imagined or grasped.
Usage Reminders
- Use with a clear imagined scenario or outcome
- Not the same as likely or probable
- Avoid confusing with conceive (to become pregnant)
- Common collocations: conceiv able scenario, conceiv able outcome, conceiv able plan
- In negatives, say not conceivable or inconceivable rather than not possible
Common Misconceptions
- It means something is very likely to happen
- It means the same as possible
- It relates to pregnancy when used instead of conceive
- If you can imagine it, it must be conceivable
- Conceivable means guaranteed to occur
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat conceivable as a cautious hedge about what can be imagined, often separating imagination from probability. Learners may overestimate its strength and read it as a near-certainty.
Learning Tips
- Pair with concrete nouns like scenario, outcome, plan
- Compare with possible and likely to note subtle differences
- Practice both positive and negative constructions: it is conceivable vs it is not conceivable
- Use in formal writing to convey cautious speculation
- Watch for collocations: conceiv able scenario, conceiv able outcome
- Avoid mixing with conceive when you mean imagine
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'conceivable' mean?
A.Unrealistic
B.Imaginable
C.Invisible
D.Unbelievable
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'conceivable' correctly?
A.The unicorn was conceivable in the garden.
B.The invisible cloak was conceivable to everyone.
C.It's not conceivable for humans to fly without wings.
D.The person was conceivable of the crime.
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the synonym of 'conceivable':
A.Obvious
B.Unimaginable
C.Inconceivable
D.Implausible
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would you use 'conceivable'?
A.Imagining a scenario that could happen
B.Talking about a transparent glass
C.Describing a dream that came true
D.Discussing a realistic plan
Step 5: Mastery
How would 'conceivable' be used in real life?
A.Discussing possible outcomes of an event
B.Talking about a fairy tale character
C.Describing a mathematical equation
D.Explaining a scientific theory
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