Inklingo

How to Say "is possible" in Spanish

The Spanish word foris possibleis cabeB1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishB1

cabe

verb (conjugated)B1
abstract capacity or possibility
A wide, clear path leading up a gentle hill towards an open, brightly lit destination, symbolizing possibility.

Examples

No cabe duda de su inocencia.

There is no doubt of his innocence. (Literally: Doubt does not fit.)

Cabe la posibilidad de que lleguen tarde.

The possibility exists that they will arrive late. (Literally: The possibility fits.)

En este argumento no cabe otra interpretación.

Another interpretation is not possible in this argument.

Formal Possibility

When 'cabe' is used abstractly, it often implies 'it is contained within the realm of possibility.' It sounds more formal than just saying 'es posible' (it is possible).

Using 'Cabe' for 'There Is'

Mistake:Using 'cabe' when you mean 'hay' (there is/are).

Correction: Only use 'cabe' when discussing capacity or possibility. For general existence, stick to 'hay': 'Hay tres libros en la mesa' (There are three books on the table).

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