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
可能世界論
かのうせかいろん (kanousekairon)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "possible" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 可能 and 可能世界論.
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, 可能世界論 (かのうせかいろん (kanousekairon)) maps to "Possible World Semantics" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. 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 "可能世界論"
私は可能世界論に興味があります。
I am interested in Possible World Semantics.
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.". "可能世界論" represents "Possible World Semantics".