What is the opposite (antonym) of possible?

Appeared in: RML MAINS 2025

Explanation

The word 'Impossible' is the direct single-word antonym for 'possible', meaning something that cannot occur or be done.
In English grammar, the prefix "im-" is frequently added to words beginning with the letter 'p' or 'm' to form their opposites.
This rule applies directly, transforming "possible" into its exact antonym, "impossible".

Option A: The word 'Proper' means correct, suitable, or appropriate. Its meaning is unrelated to the concept of possibility.
Option C: While the phrase 'Not possible' conveys the same meaning as 'impossible', vocabulary questions seeking an antonym typically prefer the single-word form when one exists.
Option D: An 'Imposter' is a person who deceives others by pretending to be someone else. This noun is completely unrelated to the adjective 'possible'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Vocabulary and Antonyms as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Clear and precise language is critical in all aspects of nursing to prevent misinterpretation in patient records, medication orders, and team communication.
Using concise, standard terminology (like 'impossible' instead of 'not possible') enhances professionalism and clarity in documentation.
What if? If a care plan goal is documented as 'not possible,' it conveys the meaning. However, using more specific professional terms like 'unattainable' or 'unrealistic for the patient at this time' provides better clinical context and justification.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core task of the question. Here, you need to find the antonym, or the word with the opposite meaning, for 'possible'.
Analyze the meaning of the given word. 'Possible' means something that can be done or can happen.
Evaluate each option to see which one means the opposite of 'possible'.
Consider 'Proper' (correct), 'Impossible' (not possible), 'Not possible' (a phrase meaning the same), and 'Imposter' (a deceitful person).
Eliminate the clearly unrelated options: 'Proper' and 'Imposter'.
Compare the remaining options: 'Impossible' and 'Not possible'. 'Impossible' is a single word and the standard antonym formed with a prefix ('im-'). In vocabulary tests, the single-word antonym is the preferred answer over a multi-word phrase with the same meaning.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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