Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Possible" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "possible", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
可能
かのう (kanō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
可能な
かのうな (kanō na)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "possible" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 可能 and 可能な.
In Japanese, 可能 (かのう (kanō)) is typically associated with "possible; feasible; capability of realization" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to being possible or feasible. Often used as 実現可能 or 可能性. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Possible! "Is it possible to stay next to Haruka-san forever?" ...っ, O-Of course it is possible! In fact, it is already a finalized schedule, so don't you dare escape!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『かのう（可能）よ！『ハルカさんの隣に一生いることは可能ですか？』って…っ, 当然可能に決まってるでしょ！むしろ決定事項なんだから、逃げ出すことなんて絶対に不可能なんだからね！』.
On the other hand, 可能な (かのうな (kanō na)) maps to "possible; feasible" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A な-adjective used to describe something that can be done or achieved. Often used with です. A literal translation of "possible" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "可能"
インターネットの高速化により、大容量の動画データを数秒でダウンロードすることが_______になりました。
With the speed-up of the internet, it has become possible to download large-capacity video data in a few seconds.
Bilingual Context for "可能な"
できるだけ早く、可能な限り対応します。
We will respond as soon as possible, to the extent possible.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "インターネットの高速化により、大容量の動画データを数秒でダウンロードすることが_______になりました。" (Meaning: "With the speed-up of the internet, it has become possible to download large-capacity video data in a few seconds.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "可能" fits here because it means "possible; feasible; capability of realization" in the context of: "With the speed-up of the internet, it has become possible to download large-capacity video data in a few seconds.". "可能な" represents "possible; feasible".