would it be possible

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phraseformal

   A polite question asking whether something can be done or allowed.

   Grammar: Often followed by 'to' + verb, or by 'for someone to' + verb: Would it be possible to change my seat?

   Patterns

   • would it be possible to do something
   • would it be possible for someone to do something
   • would it be possible if I did something

   Would it be possible to move our meeting to Thursday?

   Would it be possible for you to send the file again?

   I've missed the deadline — would it be possible to hand my essay in late?

2. 2phrasefixed phraseformal

   A careful way of asking about chances or likelihood without sounding too direct.

   Grammar: Introduces a question about whether a situation can happen: Would it be possible for prices to fall?

   Patterns

   • would it be possible for something to happen

   Would it be possible for the delivery to arrive before noon?

   Would it be possible for us to finish the whole project by June?

Common combinations

would it be possible to ask a question

Would it be possible to ask a question before you finish?

would it be possible for you to call back

Would it be possible for you to call back after five?

would it be possible to get an extension

Would it be possible to get an extension on the rent this month?

would it be possible at all

Would it be possible at all to see the doctor today?

I was wondering if it would be possible

I was wondering if it would be possible to borrow your car.

Synonyms and how they differ

could you

Shorter and more direct; fine in everyday speech, but it can sound less careful than 'would it be possible' in formal writing.

would you mind

Asks about the other person's feelings rather than ability, and is followed by an -ing form: Would you mind waiting?

is it possible

A plain question about possibility, with no polite softening; it can sound blunt in a request.

may I

Asks for permission for yourself, not for someone else to do something.

Word family

possible adjective

able to be done or to happen

possibly adverb

perhaps; used to soften statements

possibility noun

a chance that something may happen or be true

impossible adjective

not able to be done or to happen

Commonly confused: would it be possible or would it be possible for me?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “would it be possible”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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