Feasible vs. Practicable: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Updated on November 10, 2023
Feasible refers to something that is possible and achievable, often theoretically or conceptually, while practicable means capable of being done or put into practice, focusing more on practical execution.
Key Differences
Feasible is used to describe something that is possible to do, implement, or achieve, often based on theoretical or conceptual grounds. Practicable, on the other hand, implies that something is not only possible but also practical and can be effectively carried out in the real world.
When discussing feasibility, the focus is on whether an idea, plan, or project could work in theory, regardless of practical constraints. Practicability involves assessing whether it is realistic to implement a plan or idea, considering practical limitations and resources.
Feasibility often deals with abstract concepts, hypothetical scenarios, and potential outcomes. Practicability is more concerned with real-world applications, logistics, and the actual execution of plans.
A feasible idea may not always be practicable if real-world constraints, such as resources or time, make implementation challenging. Conversely, a practicable plan may not be ambitious or innovative but is achievable and realistic under current conditions.
Feasibility studies often precede practicability assessments, with the former exploring if an idea could work and the latter determining if it can be effectively executed given the existing circumstances.
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Comparison Chart
Focus
Possibility and theoretical achievability
Practical execution and real-world application
Concern
Conceptual viability
Realistic implementation considering constraints
Scope
Broad, encompassing theoretical scenarios
Specific, oriented towards actionable steps
Assessment
Often precedes practicality considerations
Follows feasibility, focusing on execution feasibility
Application
More abstract, exploring potential outcomes
Grounded in reality, emphasizing logistics and resources
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Feasible and Practicable Definitions
Feasible
Capable of being done or achieved.
Creating a prototype in a week is feasible for the team.
Practicable
Possible to carry out with the available resources.
The upgrade is practicable within our existing budget.
Feasible
Possible to accomplish within existing conditions.
It's feasible to finish the project with the current budget.
Practicable
Realistically doable under actual conditions.
Shifting the deadline is practicable and beneficial for the team.
Feasible
Practically doable based on theoretical analysis.
Expanding to new markets is feasible according to our research.
Practicable
Capable of being executed or used effectively.
The new policy is practicable and should improve efficiency.
Feasible
Realistically achievable within given constraints.
Implementing the new system is feasible by next quarter.
Practicable
Feasible in action, not just in theory.
This approach is practicable and can be implemented immediately.
Feasible
Likely to be successful or effective in theory.
The plan is feasible, but we need more data to confirm.
Practicable
Able to be done or put into practice successfully.
The solution is practicable with our current technology.
Feasible
Capable of being accomplished or brought about; possible
A feasible plan.
Practicable
Capable of being effected, done, or put into practice; feasible.
Feasible
Capable of being used or dealt with successfully
Feasible new sources of energy.
Practicable
Usable for a specified purpose
A practicable way of entry.
Feasible
Logical; likely
A feasible explanation.
Practicable
Capable of being accomplished; feasible.
Feasible
Able to be done in practice.
His plan to rid Trafalgar Square of pigeons by bringing in peregrine falcons to eat them was dismissed as not feasible.
Practicable
Serving a useful function; useful, functional or handy.
Feasible
Capable of being done, executed, or effected; practicable.
Always existing before their eyes as a thing feasible in practice.
It was not feasible to gratify so many ambitions.
Practicable
Available for use; accessible or employable.
Feasible
Fit to be used or tilled, as land.
Practicable
That may be practiced or performed; capable of being done or accomplished with available means or resources; feasible; as, a practicable method; a practicable aim; a practicable good.
Feasible
Capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are
Practicable
Capable of being used; passable; as, a practicable weapon; a practicable road.
Feasible
In a practicable manner; so as to be feasible
Practicable
Usable for a specific purpose;
An operable plan
A practicable solution
Practicable
Capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are
FAQs
Does practicable imply ease of implementation?
Practicable suggests that implementation is realistic and doable, though not necessarily easy.
Can a project be feasible but not practicable?
Yes, a project can be theoretically possible (feasible) but not practical to implement (practicable).
What does feasible mean?
Feasible refers to something that is possible to do or achieve.
Is feasibility more about theory?
Feasibility often involves theoretical or conceptual viability.
Does feasible imply a higher chance of success?
Feasible implies a good chance of success in theory, but not necessarily in practice.
Is a feasible solution always the best option?
Not always, as feasibility doesn't guarantee practicality or effectiveness in the real world.
Can practicable solutions be innovative?
Practicable solutions can be innovative, but they must also be realistically implementable.
Is practicable the same as feasible?
Practicable is similar but emphasizes practical execution and real-world application.
How do businesses use feasibility analysis?
Businesses use it to evaluate the potential success and viability of new projects or products.
Can government policies be practicable but not feasible?
Government policies are generally considered practicable if they can be implemented, which usually implies they are also feasible.
Are practicable solutions always cost-efficient?
Not always, as practicability focuses on the ability to implement rather than cost alone.
Can feasibility change with circumstances?
Yes, changes in circumstances, such as resources or technology, can affect feasibility.
What considerations make something practicable?
Considerations include available resources, logistics, and practical constraints.
How does practicability relate to resources?
Practicability is directly linked to the availability and adequacy of resources.
Does practicability change over time?
Yes, as resources and conditions change, so does the practicability of a project.
Does feasible consider cost-effectiveness?
Feasibility often includes cost-effectiveness as a factor in determining viability.
Is a practicable plan always feasible?
Typically, a practicable plan is also feasible, but its focus is on practical application.
Is feasibility study important?
Yes, it's crucial in determining the potential success of a project or idea.
Can something become more feasible with technology?
Yes, advancements in technology can make previously infeasible ideas feasible.
Is practicability important in project management?
Yes, it's crucial for ensuring that plans can be realistically executed and managed.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
