maybe
MAY-bee
Maybe (adv) means Perhaps; possibly, but not certainly. Example: “Maybe we should just call and ask instead of guessing.”
adv
1
Perhaps; possibly, but not certainly.
"Maybe we should just call and ask instead of guessing."
"He's maybe the most talented player on the team."
"I might go for a run later, maybe after lunch."
noun
1
An uncertain or noncommittal answer.
"Her "maybe" felt more like a "no" to him."
"When I asked if she would come, all I got was a maybe."
"A maybe is better than a no, but I still need a clear answer."
How to use maybe
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA word used when you're not sure something is true or will happen.
Common pairings
just maybe
a maybe answer
well, maybe
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Word forms
- Plural
- maybes
- Comparative
- more maybe
- Superlative
- most maybe
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ we should just call and ask instead of guessing.
Etymology
Formed in Middle English from the phrase "it may be", shortened to "maybe" over time.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “maybe” mean?
The word “maybe” means perhaps; possibly, but not certainly. In plain terms, a word used when you're not sure something is true or will happen.
How do you pronounce “maybe”?
“Maybe” is pronounced MAY-bee (/ˈmeɪ.bi/ in IPA).
How do you use “maybe” in a sentence?
Here is “maybe” used in a sentence: “Maybe we should just call and ask instead of guessing.”
What is another word for “maybe”?
Words with a similar meaning to “maybe” include perhaps.
What part of speech is “maybe”?
Depending on how it is used, “maybe” can be an adverb and a noun.
Where does the word “maybe” come from?
The word “maybe” comes from Middle English. Formed in Middle English from the phrase "it may be", shortened to "maybe" over time.
Is “maybe” a common word?
“Maybe” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “maybe” have?
“Maybe” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: perhaps; possibly, but not certainly.
What is the difference between 'maybe' and 'may be'?
'Maybe' is one word, an adverb meaning perhaps, as in 'Maybe it will rain.' 'May be' is two words, a verb phrase meaning 'might be,' as in 'She may be right.' A quick test: if you can swap in 'perhaps,' use the single word 'maybe'; if it acts as a verb, use two words.
What is the difference between 'maybe' and 'perhaps'?
'Maybe' and 'perhaps' mean the same thing, that something is possible but not certain. The difference is tone: 'perhaps' sounds slightly more formal and is common in writing, while 'maybe' feels casual and conversational. In everyday speech the two are fully interchangeable.
Is 'maybe' formal or informal?
'Maybe' leans informal and is most at home in speech and casual writing. In formal reports, essays, or business documents, writers often prefer 'perhaps,' 'possibly,' or 'it is possible that.' The meaning stays the same; only the register changes to suit the situation.
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