How to Say ‘If possible’ in Japanese
できれば
dekire ba
[deh-kee-reh ba]
💬 Usage Tip: [できれば] literally means "if it can be done," but in real use it means "if possible" or "if you can." It's a useful softener before requests: [できれば、窓側でお願いします。]
Phrase Breakdown
できれ
dekire
[deh-kee-reh]
if possible
A soft phrase used to politely express a preference.
できれば窓側の席をお願いします。
If possible, a window-side seat, please.
ば
ba
[ba]
if
Conditional ending that completes the expression できれば, meaning if possible.
できれば店内の席がいいです。
If possible, I would like an indoor seat.
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