possible

In futurists' parlance a 'possible' future scenario -- as opposed to a 'plausible' or 'probable' one -- is a scenario that is very unlikely but is not prohibited by currently existing knowledge of science.

This is the least likely 'level' of scenario and serves as sort of a minimum 'likelihood' test for a futurist's forecast. In the Futures Studies field, the concept of 'possible' draws the line between a futures scenario and science fiction.

Pos"si*ble (?), a. [F., fr. L. possibilis, fr. posse to be able, to have power; potis able, capable + esse to be. See Potent, Am, and cf. Host a landlord.]

Capable of existing or occurring, or of being conceived or thought of; able to happen; capable of being done; not contrary to the nature of things; -- sometimes used to express extreme improbability; barely able to be, or to come to pass; as, possibly he is honest, as it is possible that Judas meant no wrong.

With God all things are possible. Matt. xix. 26.

Syn. -- Practicable; likely. See Practicable.

© Webster 1913.