maybe
word
/ˈmeɪbi/
MAY-bee
/mˈeɪbiː/
MAY-bee
Definition
Used to express possibility or uncertainty about something. It means something might happen or be true, but it's not certain.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in informal speech to soften statements or suggestions. Often paired with modal verbs: 'maybe it will rain', 'maybe we should go'. Not very formal; in formal contexts, 'perhaps' might be preferred.
Spanish: quizás - tal vezPortuguese (BR): talvezPortuguese (PT): talvezChinese (Simplified): 也许 - 可能Chinese (Traditional): 也許 - 可能Hindi: शायदArabic: ربما - قد يكونBengali: হয়তো - সম্ভবতRussian: может быть - возможноJapanese: たぶん - もしかしたらVietnamese: có thể - biết đâuKorean: 아마 - 어쩌면Turkish: belki - olabilirUrdu: شایدIndonesian: mungkin
Example Sentences
Maybe it will rain today.
basic
She said maybe, but she is not sure.
basic
We will maybe go to the park later.
basic
Maybe we should try the new restaurant tonight.
natural
He said maybe when I asked if he’d come.
natural
I’m not sure, but maybe you’re right.
natural