arguably
6 synonyms and 1 antonym for arguably, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adverb — Based on reasonable evidence or argument, though not beyond dispute.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From arguable plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly; arguable itself comes from argue, from Latin arguere.
Full origin of arguably →Frequently asked questions
What does “arguably” mean?
The word “arguably” means based on reasonable evidence or argument, though not beyond dispute. In plain terms, a way of stating an opinion while signalling it can be backed up with reasons, even if not everyone agrees.
How do you pronounce “arguably”?
“Arguably” is pronounced AHG-yoo-uhb-lee (/ˈɑɹɡjuəbli/ in IPA).
How do you use “arguably” in a sentence?
Here is “arguably” used in a sentence: “She is arguably the best violinist of her generation.”
What part of speech is “arguably”?
“Arguably” is an adverb.
Where does the word “arguably” come from?
The word “arguably” comes from Latin. From arguable plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly; arguable itself comes from argue, from Latin arguere.
Is “arguably” a common word?
“Arguably” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "arguably" and "probably"?
"Arguably" means a claim can be reasonably supported by argument or evidence, though it remains open to dispute. "Probably" expresses likelihood, suggesting something is more likely true than not. Arguably concerns whether a case can be made; probably concerns the odds of something being true.
Where does "arguably" go in a sentence?
"Arguably" often opens a sentence or clause ("Arguably, it is the best option") or sits directly before the word it modifies ("arguably true," "arguably the finest"). It is very frequently placed right before a superlative, as in "arguably the greatest."
What is the difference between "arguably" and "undeniably"?
"Arguably" signals that a claim can be reasonably defended but is still open to dispute. "Undeniably" signals the opposite, that something cannot reasonably be disputed at all. The two words sit at opposite ends of the certainty scale.
Is "arguably" formal or informal?
"Arguably" is fairly neutral but leans toward formal, academic, and journalistic writing, where it is used to hedge a strong claim. It lets a writer assert something while acknowledging that others might reasonably disagree.
